Food Safety Knowledge and Practices Among Food Vendors in Aba, Abia State, South East Nigeria

Street food vending is a vital component of the urban food system in South East Nigeria, yet food safety compliance among vendors remains inconsistent, posing significant public health risks from foodborne illnesses. This study assesses food safety knowledge and practices among street food vendors operating in Aba commercial areas, Abia State. A cross-sectional study design is employed, with 295 vendors recruited through systematic sampling from five major commercial zones. A structured questionnaire examines knowledge of foodborne diseases, hygienic food handling, temperature control, personal hygiene, and waste management, alongside direct observation of food preparation environments. Data are analysed using SPSS, with chi-square tests determining associations between vendor characteristics and food safety compliance. Evidence from Nigeria's National Food Safety Management Committee reports indicates that foodborne illness outbreaks are frequently linked to street food consumption in South East urban centres, underlining the need for vendor training. The study applies the Hazard Analysis framework to systematically identify food safety risks across the vendor supply chain. Findings will guide Abia State's environmental health directorate in designing vendor certification programmes and targeted food safety inspections. The study also contributes to operationalising Nigeria's National Policy on Food Safety. Keywords: food safety, street food vendors, food hygiene, Aba, Abia State.