Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of the foodservice management practices, the equipment ratio of sanitary facility/equipment, and dietitians' perceptions of (i) the barriers to sanitary management and (ii) the sanitary management performance level in the welfare institutions for the disabled in Korea. The survey was conducted during the period from September 7 to October 15, 2006. A total of 91 institutions (response rate 74.6%) were analyzed by using SPSS (windows ver. 14.0). The average number of meals served per day per an institution was 379. The majority (93.4%) of dietitians made decisions in procurement. The major part of the purchase was made through private contract. The factors affecting menu planning were nutrition, food preference, and cost, in the order of importance. Among the food items, fruits were infrequently served, while protein source foods and green leaf vegetables were almost daily served. The equipment ratio of sanitary facilities/equipment was 45%, which was relatively low. Most dietitians perceived 'limited availability of facilities and equipment'and 'the lack of support from financing department'as the major barriers in implementing a desirable sanitary system. Sanitary management performance in 'the food ingredient'was perceived as the lowest, while that in 'the uniform'showed the highest. The results of this study suggest that a proper supporting program on securing the facility/equipment and adequately trained employees are needed for successful sanitary management. Also, a more frequent supply of fruits for the disabled is recommended.

• Keywords: welfare institution for the disabled; foodservice management; barriers to implementing a sanitary system; sanitary management performance