AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN FOOD SAFETY KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES AMONG FOOD VENDORS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Author:  Ekong, I. J., Udoh, E. S. and Okon, U. E.

Abstract
This study examined the associations between food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices among food vendors in urban areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of vendors; and examined the food safety knowledge-attitude, knowledge-practice and attitude-practice associations among food vendors in urban areas of Akwa Ibom State. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to street food vendors in three major urban centres, namely Uyo, Ikot Ekpene and Eket. Questionnaires from a total of 168 food vendors were used for analysis. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Spearman Rank Correlation. The results showed that food vending in the study area is predominantly undertaken by females (77.98%). The respondents had a mean age of 38 years and an average educational attainment of 13.89 years, indicating moderate formal education. The mean monthly income was ₦331,225.00. The Spearman Rank Correlation results indicate statistically significant positive correlations for knowledge (K)-attitude(A) (p<0.001, ƥ=0.376); knowledge(K)-practice(P) (p=0.0014, ƥ=0.245); and attitude(A)-practice(P) (p<0.001, ƥ=0.292). These associations are weak (approaching moderate) for K-A; and weak for both K-P and A-P. However, the weak associations observed suggest that knowledge and attitudes alone do not fully explain variations in food safety practices. Continuous education and training programmes should be strengthened to enhance food safety awareness and reinforce positive attitudes among food vendors.