Knowledge and Practice of Food Preservation Techniques Among Households in Kano State

This study examines the knowledge and practice of food preservation techniques among households in Kano State, North West Nigeria. Post-harvest food loss remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, and inadequate knowledge of preservation methods exacerbates food insecurity at the household level. The study employs a descriptive survey design, targeting 280 female household heads in Kano Municipal and Ungogo local government areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering knowledge of traditional and modern preservation methods. Objectives include determining respondents' awareness of food preservation techniques, assessing the frequency of their application, and identifying barriers to adoption. Recent literature identifies cost, cultural beliefs, and limited technical knowledge as key barriers to effective food preservation in northern Nigerian households. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory underpins this study, explaining how new preservation techniques are adopted within social systems over time. Findings are expected to reveal a preference for traditional preservation methods such as sun-drying and smoking, with limited uptake of modern techniques. The study recommends that government extension services and Home Economics departments intensify practical demonstrations of affordable preservation methods at the community level. Keywords: food preservation, post-harvest loss, household food security, Kano State, traditional techniques.