Abstract:

Foodborne diseases present a significant public health threat worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries where inadequate food safety measures lead to high morbidity and mortality rates. In Nigeria, improper food handling and poor hygiene practices among street vendors contribute to the spread of foodborne illnesses such as diarrhea and cholera. This study aims to assess the food hygiene practices among food vendors in Osun State, Nigeria, and identify sociodemographic factors influencing these practices. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 300 food vendors in Osun State, selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire designed based on objectives and analysed using an IBM SPSS version 25.0. The majority of vendors (88.7%) were female, and 67.0% had received prior food safety training. The findings revealed that 68.0% of vendors had access to adequate handwashing facilities, and 90.0% operated weather-protected stalls. Younger vendors (aged 16–24 years) showed significantly better hygiene practices compared to older age groups. Vendors with food safety training were over twice as likely to exhibit good hygiene practices compared to untrained vendor. Education level was significantly associated with food safety practices. Pest presence (61.7%) and handling money while serving food (64.0%) were identified as key risks in food preparation areas. Age, education, and food safety training were found to be significant predictors of hygiene compliance. Targeted interventions focusing on education, infrastructure, and behavioral change are recommended to improve food safety, especially for younger and less experienced food vendors.

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