Gangseo District Strengthens Hygiene and Nutrition Network at Children's and Social Welfare Cafeterias

Nearly 2,000 Annual Inspections Conducted Through Meal Service Management Support Center

Gangseo District in Seoul (District Mayor Jin Kyohun) announced on November 7 that it has achieved meaningful results by providing safe and healthy meal services at children's cafeterias and social welfare cafeterias.

Cafeteria Hygiene Inspection. Provided by Gangseo District.

With the rise in aging and increased demand for welfare services leading to a growing number of small-scale welfare facilities, but a shortage of professional nutritionists, the district operates the "Children and Social Welfare Meal Service Management Support Center." The center has registered and manages 308 children's cafeterias and 96 social welfare cafeterias, establishing a safety net for hygiene and nutrition.

This year, the center conducted approximately 1,875 hygiene and nutrition education sessions and inspections at children's cafeterias, and about 300 at social welfare cafeterias. Children's cafeterias include daycare centers, kindergartens, and local children's centers, while social welfare cafeterias include nursing homes and facilities for people with disabilities. Professional nutritionists visit the sites in person to provide tailored management, and monthly menus, healthy recipes, and dietary information are provided to significantly improve user satisfaction.

Notably, last year's ATP test results showed a significant improvement in contamination levels on major contact surfaces such as refrigerator handles, countertops, and aprons. In a satisfaction survey for the program, 77.2% of respondents answered that they were "satisfied." The results of this year's survey will be announced at the end of the year.

To improve hygiene, the district provided hygiene management supplies such as salinity meters, nail brushes, and refrigerator thermometers four times a year, enhancing the cafeteria environment. In addition, the district published the "Healthy Table Story" magazine to promote proper dietary culture, and at the 23rd Heo Jun Festival, operated an experiential program using the medicinal ingredient "radish" to increase residents' interest.

Jin Kyohun, Mayor of Gangseo District, stated, "The center plays an important role in creating a healthy food culture together with local residents," and added, "We will continue to work closely with the community to do our best in establishing a safe and healthy meal service environment."