Assessment of Food Safety Knowledge and Hygiene Practices among Food Vendors of Street Food Trucks in, at Makkah, Saudi Arabia 2021
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Abstract
Background:
Food Safety Knowledge and Hygiene Practices Among Food Vendors of Street Food Trucks in, at Makkah. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that around 9.4 million illnesses occurring in the yearly are caused by foodborne diseases. Additionally, more than 839 foodborne disease outbreaks were reported in 2016,resulting in over 14,000 illnesses, 800 hospitalizations, and even worse, 17 deaths. Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) also evaluated that around 600 million citizens experience symptoms of various sicknesses after consuming contaminated food. In addition to this, more than 420,000 deaths occur yearly, resulting in a reduction of 33 million life-years. The popularity of street food in both developed and developing countries is seen as a major concern because of its potential harmful effects on public's health and well-being, implying that proper food safety knowledge and hygienic practices must be observed among street food vendors. However, only limited related studies have been conducted in Saudi Arabia. Food vended on the streets, otherwise known as "street food," includes meals and beverages that can be easily prepared and sold by vendors along the streets and crowded areas.
Aim of study: To Assessment of Food Safety Knowledge and Hygiene Practices Among Food Vendors of Street Food Trucks in, at Makkah, Saudi Arabia 2021.
Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 200 food vendors in street food trucks in Makkah, City, Saudi Arabia, from May to September 2021 were given self-administered questionnaire to evaluate their socio-demographic, employment profile and food safety knowledge. Furthermore, observational checklist was used to evaluate food vendors' personal and environmental hygienic practices in street food trucks.
Results:There were 200 participants, and the majority age were(44.0%) in (25-35)years. The majority of them were male(76.0%), while female(24.0 %). The most of the participants were widow(49.0%), have education Senior Secondary and more were(58.0%), regarding Type of vendor the majority of participants Stationary were(85.0%), regarding Duration of being street vendor (in years) the majority of participants Less than a year were(53.0%). regarding Place of preparation of food the majority of participants Both were(55.0%).
Conclusion: Socio-demographic and employment characteristics of food trucks street vendors revealed a substantial effect on their food safety. Thus, continuous efforts to educate and guide food handlers on the proper safety protocols should be enhanced.