Food Hygiene and Safety Practices (FHSP) among Street Food Vendors in a Low-Income Urban Community of a Metropolis in Ghana

Abstract

Street foods remain important source of meals to individuals and homes especially in developing countries. However, street foods have public health concerns due to lapses in food hygiene and safety practices (FHSP) from vendors especially in low-income communities. The aim of this paper is to assess food hygiene and safety practices among street food vendors in a low-income community of a metropolis in Ghana. Also a rapid assessment framework for food vendors is proposed and tested. The study involved interviewing and observing 50 street food vendors. Almost all vendors are females (96%) with a significant number (52%) without formal education. Few respondents (28%) claim they have permits. The rapid assessment framework appears promising showing that food hygiene and safety practices (FHSP) are low with only 28% of vendors achieving a basic practice level. Statistically FHSP have no association (p>0.05) with vendors' characteristics like age group, years of experience and education. However, stalls vendors use and nature of food sold have significant association (p<0.05) with FHSP. While 38% of vendors repackage leftover food, almost all vendors practice poor garbage containment. Monitoring activities by authorities are centered on advising food vendors.