Enrichment of toxicology laboratory in the new era of covid-19: preliminary qualitative test of preservatives in processed food

Abstract

The purpose of this current study is to design a qualitative test of preservatives in processed food to enrich materials for toxicology laboratory by utilizing simple, rapid, and eco-friendly household materials. This research employed true experimental design that involved in 58 students who enrolled in the Toxicology laboratory class. The six variety of food items containing formalin and five food items containing borax were tested qualitatively using fruit extract as natural indicator. The test equipment indicator was extracted indicators from dragon fruit ( Hylocereus polyrhizus ) and turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) using water extraction process. The results of this experiment showed that both of the extract can be used to rapidly detect the presence of formalin and borax contained in the processed food. Survey analysis showed the positive responses from students toward the implementation of home-practical exercise approach. This home-hands-on activities help them to develop their thinking and hands-on abilities through home-experiments experiences. This findings provide an alternative approach for conducting practical exercise at home and or online learning as well by utilizing easily available, safe, and affordable materials. This home-practical exercise enriched alternative strategies for conducting laboratory work during the long classroom activity closure due to Covid-19 pandemic