ABSTRACT

The study aimed to assess the perception and practices of food hygiene among food vendors in University of Benin and its perceived effect on student’s health. The study employed a cross-sectional design to assess food hygiene practices among food vendors and their effects on students' health in a tertiary educational institution. The findings highlight considerable food hygiene issues at Bukas, with 43.6% of students reporting frequent foodborne illnesses and 41.8% experiencing gastrointestinal problems. Hygiene practices among vendors were inconsistent, with 30.3% of students observing only occasional handwashing before food handling, and 28.9% noting infrequent use of protective clothing. Economic challenges and lack of training affect vendor hygiene, with 56.5% of students agreeing these factors compromise standards, while 46.8% cite insufficient access to clean water. Approximately 68.4% of students recognize health risks; however, only 58.3% actively consider hygiene when choosing where to eat. Overall, students express strong support (66.7%) for improved hygiene practices, underscoring the need for enhanced training, resources, and regulatory oversight to safeguard student health. These improvements could effectively address food safety gaps in informal dining environments. In conclusion, this study highlights the pressing issue of food hygiene practices among vendors and their direct impact on the health of consumers, particularly students. The findings reveal a lack of adherence to essential hygiene practices, which contributes to the prevalence of foodborne illnesses. Addressing these concerns is vital for safeguarding public health and ensuring food safety in informal dining settings.

Keywords:  Perception, Food hygiene, Gastrointestinal problems, Economic challenges, Health risks