Evaluation of hygiene practices and microbiological status of ready-to-eat vegetable salads in Spanish school canteens.

Background: This study was conducted in eight Spanish school canteens during the period 2008-2009. Food handlers' practices, kitchen equipment, hygiene/sanitation conditions and handling practices were evaluated using checklists. In parallel, the microbiological quality and safety of ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetable salads were assessed.