What does the term "food safety culture" refer to?

The term "food safety culture" refers to the shared values and practices related to food safety within a food business. This concept emphasizes that food safety is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it involves an organization-wide commitment to safe food practices. A strong food safety culture means that all employees, from management to frontline workers, prioritize and engage in safe food handling, preparation, and service practices.

In a food business with a robust food safety culture, there is a collaborative environment where staff feel empowered to report issues, ask questions, and contribute to continuous improvement in food safety protocols. This commitment leads to better compliance, reduced incidents of foodborne illness, and overall enhanced food safety outcomes.

Other options, such as trends in food recipes, marketing strategies, and reviews of food establishments, do not encompass the holistic approach that food safety culture promotes. These aspects are more aligned with consumer behavior and business practices rather than the internal values and operational commitments necessary to ensure food safety.