Factors Associated with Fecal Coliform Contamination of Catha edulis (Khat) Twigs along the Value Chain in Igembe South Sub-County, Meru, Kenya

Fecal contamination of food crops poses significant public health risks, yet little is known about its occurrence in Catha edulis (khat), a widely consumed stimulant in Kenya. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with fecal coliform contamination of khat twigs at different stages of the value chain in Igembe South Sub-County, Meru, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive design was applied with 328 respondents, including farmers, handlers, vendors, and consumers, while twig samples (300g) were collected aseptically at multiple stages for microbial analysis using MacConkey agar and EC broth with EC broth at 44.5°C. Data were analyzed using SPSS v23 with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA at a 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed significant associations between fecal coliform contamination and type of sanitation facility (p<0.01), educational status (p<0.05), water source (p<0.01), environmental cleanliness (p<0.05), and water storage practices (p<0.01). Khat handled by individuals with lower education and stored in unsanitary conditions showed higher contamination levels, while areas with inadequate sanitation facilities or open defecation recorded the greatest risks. The findings highlight the importance of improving sanitation infrastructure, ensuring safe water access, and promoting hygiene education to minimize contamination risks and safeguard consumer health.