Synthesis

Reviewed literature and studies expresses the need of proper education and the
necessity of good and proper hygienic practices in the prevention of the acquisition of
intestinal parasitism among food handlers and its consumers. Previous researches
identified lack of proper education and knowledge in good hygiene as the number one
cause of intestinal parasitism among food handlers and consumers. Parasitism is known
as one of the most common survival strategies in the biological environment according to
Yeh (2002) and as what Bisht (2011) confirmed in a study, due to poor hygienic practices
and environmental sanitation, an individual is at risk in becoming a victim of intestinal
parasitism. However, Pearson (n.d.) & Gil (2013) indicated that even individuals who
practice good and proper hygienic practices and adequate environmental sanitation can
also be at risk for intestinal parasitism, especially individuals who are young and those
who are immunocompromised.
Maintaining proper food hygiene and safety is essential in the prevention of
intestinal parasitism. The four Cs of food safety according to Muppala (2011) must be
complied well in order to protect individuals against ailments and illnesses. In handling
food, cleanliness and hand washing is important to avoid the spread of harmful bacteria
or organisms that can put food consumers at risk for infection or diseases. Prepared foods
must be cooked well to keep it from lethal bacteria, parasites, and other disease-causing
organisms and cooked foods must never be reheated more than once. Chilling foods in
the fridge at the right temperature helps in stopping the growth and development of
bacteria. And it is very important to keep the work place or the kitchen clean as always to
stop cross contamination (Muppala, 2011 & Safe Food, n.d.).

The researcher collated all the above-said information for the purpose of
comparing, validating, and documenting agreeing and opposing views and results of
previous related studies. These similarities and differences in views and results about the
correlation of intestinal parasitism and hygienic practices of food handlers will serve as
one of the motivations in this study that will further look on ways in the minimization of
intestinal parasitism through good and proper individual knowledge and practices on
hygiene and adequate environmental sanitation.