Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Food Handlers Regarding Food Safety in Markets in Ibadan, Oyo State

Food safety in public markets is a significant determinant of community health outcomes in urban Nigeria. This cross-sectional study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of food handlers operating in three major markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was deployed among 320 food handlers selected through systematic random sampling. Observational checklists were also used to assess actual food handling practices at point-of-sale. Findings revealed that while sixty-eight percent of respondents demonstrated good theoretical knowledge of food hygiene principles, only forty-one percent consistently applied these principles in practice. Attitudinal assessment indicated that the majority of food handlers held positive attitudes toward food safety, yet barriers including inadequate facilities, time pressure, and lack of enforcement were cited as primary obstacles to compliance. Critical practice gaps identified included absence of protective clothing, improper refuse disposal, and inadequate temperature control for perishable foods. Prevalence of valid food handler medical certificates was alarmingly low at fourteen percent. The study established a significant positive correlation between level of formal education and food safety practice scores. Recommendations include mandatory pre-service and periodic refresher training for market food handlers, provision of basic sanitary infrastructure, and consistent regulatory inspections by Oyo State environmental health officers. Keywords: food safety, food handlers, market, knowledge, Ibadan.