Food-Handling Practices and Environmental Factors Associated With Food Contamination Among Street Food Vendors in Nairobi County, Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Lack of adequate sanitation and refuse disposal facilities are among the factors found to contribute to food contamination among street food vendors. Most vending facilities are near crowded places, such as bus terminals or markets to attract consumers, and the few basic amenities, such as toilets, are inadequate. The objective of the study was to determine which sanitation practices were associated with food contamination in Githurai and Gikomba markets in Nairobi County. Methodology: Using a cross-sectional study design, we systematically randomly sampled 149 street food vendors and used questionnaires to interview them and make observations. Results: A significant negative association was observed between access to a toilet facility and food contamination (P .05). Conclusions: Access to a toilet facility and availability of running water within the toilet facility decreased the likelihood of food contamination. The presence of pests/rodents had a positive association with food contamination. There is a need for more basic amenities, especially toilets and water facilities, within these markets, as well as sensitisation on pest control.