PATTERN OF FOOD HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PRACTICES AMONG FOOD VENDORS IN NIGER DELTA UNIVERSITY (Published)
This study examined pattern of food hygiene and environmental health practices among food vendors in Niger Delta University Wilberforce Island Bayelsa State. The descriptive survey design was used in this study. The specific population 156 food vendors who are engaged in all forms of food vending within Niger Delta University communities. The instrument used was questionnaire titled: Pattern of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health Practices” (r=0.79). Data were analyzed using frequency distribution and percentage. The results of the study showed that majority (96.7%) of the food vendors’ ensured good practices in food hygiene, personal hygiene and environmental health practices. Respondents also had good knowledge and awareness on food hygiene. The relationship between food hygiene and environmental hygiene is positive in ensuring safety standard in food as a major issue in environmental health practices. Rules and regulations are enforced by environmental law enforcement agencies on food vending. It was recommended that government should empower food vendor to make training on food hygiene and safety effective and compulsory. Every food vendor should be registered with government environmental health agencies for monitoring and safety compliance
Keywords: Pattern; Food Hygiene; Environmental Health; Practices; Vendor