Community-Based Pharmaceutical Technology for Cooking Oil Valorization: A Pretest–Posttest Study

Abstract

Introduction: Recycled cooking oil has been used to make soap, but it has environmental and health hazards. This study assessed the effectiveness of a community educational intervention to enhance the knowledge of used cooking oil management and soap production.

Methods: Nine women attended an educational session, demonstration, and hands-on soapmaking activity. Knowledge was assessed using a validated pre- and post-intervention questionnaire, and measures of satisfaction and confidence.

Results: The reliability of the questionnaire was high (Cronbach’s α = 0.903). Knowledge scores went from 66.7% to 98.9% – a 32.2 percentage point increase. Eight improved while 1 remained perfect. Overall satisfaction was 100% and 88.9% reported very high confidence in making their own soap.

Conclusion: The intervention was effective in improving short-term knowledge and practical confidence of used cooking oil recycling. It may improve household environmental health literacy and circular economy practices. Longer–term follow-up in larger controlled studies is needed to assess sustained outcomes and product safety.