Survey of Food Handling Practices and Microbial Contamination Risk in School Canteens in Makurdi, Benue State

School canteens serve as primary food access points for millions of Nigerian pupils, yet food handling standards in these settings frequently fall short of public health requirements. Microbial contamination of canteen meals poses direct risks to student health, absenteeism, and nutritional outcomes. This study surveyed food handling practices and microbial contamination risks in school canteens in Makurdi, Benue State, North Central Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with 25 school canteens selected through purposive sampling from public and private secondary schools. Structured observation checklists and questionnaires were administered to canteen operators. Environmental swab samples were collected from food preparation surfaces, serving utensils, and canteen operators' hands to assess total viable count and the presence of indicator organisms. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square. Results showed widespread deficiencies in personal hygiene practices, temperature management, and surface sanitation. Coliform organisms were isolated from hand swabs and food contact surfaces in 16 of 25 canteens. Operators lacked food handler training and health certificates. The study recommends mandatory food safety certification for school canteen operators, regular environmental health inspections, and integration of food hygiene standards into school canteen licensing requirements in Benue State. Keywords: food handling, school canteens, microbial contamination, Makurdi, food safety