Do Vendors’ Knowledge and Attitudes Reflect their Practices? Food Safety Insights from Seikwa Community, Ghana
Abstract:
Food
safety is a major public health concern, especially in communities where food
vending is a primary economic activity. In Seikwa, Ghana, food vendors are
central to daily meal provision, making safe food handling essential to prevent
foodborne illnesses. This study assessed food safety knowledge, attitudes, and
practices (KAP) among food vendors in the Seikwa community. A descriptive
cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach was employed. Respondents
were selected through simple random sampling, and data were collected using a
predesigned questionnaire adapted from the WHO’s Five Keys to Food Safety. The
instrument included a self-administered section for knowledge and attitudes and
an observational checklist for practices. A total of 94 food vendors
participated. Results showed that 52 (55.3%) had good knowledge of food safety,
52.3% exhibited positive attitudes, and 66.4% demonstrated good practices. Gaps
in knowledge and practices were more pronounced among younger vendors (22-27
years) and those with higher education levels. Vendors operating in regulated
environments, such as school premises and market squares, showed more positive
attitudes. These findings indicate the need for targeted training and regular
monitoring to enhance food safety standards among food vendors in the Seikwa
community.
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