Food safety related practices and acculturation of first generation Chinese Americans in Pennsylvania.

This study sought to assess food-safety-related practices among first-generation Chinese Americans and their relationship with demographic characteristics and level of acculturation.

A convenience sample of 399 Chinese Americans participated in the study. Results indicated that most respondents (about 95 percent) applied some positive food safety practices.

About 90 percent of respondents reported frequently or always engaging in practices that prevent cross-contamination. Approximately 40 percent reported always using a household disinfectant when cleaning the sink and/or cutting board(s). Improper refrigeration and thawing methods were common. Females, married individuals, and individuals with children reported that they more frequently applied positive food safety practices than did males, individuals who were never married, and respondents with no children. More acculturated respondents were less likely to report negative food safety practices.