Assessing Food Safety Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Street Food Vendors

This survey assessed street food vendors' food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Rizal Boulevard, Dumaguete City. This study used quantitative research utilizing survey methodology. The researchers used purposive sampling to select 50 vendors as the study's respondents based on their location and street food sales. Findings revealed that most street food vendors were females between 41 and 50, and married. The street food vendors received food safety training and had been in the street food vending business for several years. Despite variations in socio-demographic factors, the respondents displayed an extremely knowledgeable level of food safety knowledge and exhibited a positive attitude towards food safety. However, their adherence to food safety practices in their operations was consistent. For challenges, poor food safety practices were noted in water use, lack of access to safe water, unregulated street vending practices, inadequate waste disposal, and the need for proper facilities. The study emphasized the moderate positive correlation between food safety knowledge and adherence to food safety practices. Findings suggest that higher levels of food safety knowledge, strong positive attitudes, and better practices contribute to better handling challenges in the street food vending sector. To enhance street food vendors' food safety knowledge and practices, several interventions are put forward to support and achieve comprehensive food safety training programs that address the identified gaps. Initiatives could focus on providing accessible and practical training, providing access to safe water and proper waste disposal facilities, and creating awareness about safe food vending practices. Further, collaboration and engagement of relevant stakeholders are essential to create a supportive environment that enables street food vendors to enhance their food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices. By improving food safety standards, street food can be improved, ensuring the well-being of both vendors and customers.