Use of the COM-B Model for behavioural change to improve hygiene compliance behaviours in UK food and drink manufacturing.

Background: Foodborne illness has continued global prevalence indicating improved food safety behaviours are required throughout the global supply chain. Food/drink manufacturing and processing(FDMP) businesses are subject to strict regulations to ensure consumer safety, including assessment/continuous improvement of food safety culture(FSC).

Purpose: This study has designed behavioural interventions to prompt hygienic cleaning equipment storage to reduce the risk of microbiological contamination therefore increasing hygiene compliance and improve FSC in a UK-based FDMP.

Methods: The COM-B model structured an in-depth understanding of target behavioural determinants associated with a key area of hygiene non-compliance in a large UK-based FDMP.​ Using the 7-stage nudge theory, data-driven interventions were developed, including a shadowboard to improve hygienic cleaning equipment storage. Perceptions of intervention feasibility/acceptability were determined using qualitative/quantitative approaches with food-handlers/managers(n=33). Pre-and post-intervention, food safety management system compliance metrics and employee attitudes(n=96) were analysed to indicate behavioural/cognitive measures of intervention effect.

Outcomes: Key intervention drivers associated with target behaviours included ‘physical’ and ‘social opportunity’ (provision of shadow boards/cleaning kit for operatives and tailored promotion from influential stakeholders) and ‘reflective motivation’ (communications and knowledge reinforcement). Positive employee perceptions towards nudges were obtained, for-example “the shadowboard is fit for purpose and makes the area look tidier”(O14). Non-compliant cleaning-efficacy behaviours decreased by 50% post-intervention and employee attitudes towards hygienic cleaning equipment storage improved. Use of COM-B to understand target behaviour determinants and implementation of developed interventions in an FDMP setting increased compliant behaviours and strengthened FSC, thus protecting the health of the wider population.