Assessment of food hygiene and safety knowledge, attitude, and practices of fruit and vegetable vendors in the Ho central market, Ghana

Local markets are primarily the center for trade and distribution of fruits and vegetables in Ghana. Fruit and vegetable vendors are responsible for keeping food hygienic and safe from contamination. However, little is known about fruit and vegetable vendors' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward food hygiene and safety in local markets. This study aimed to assess the KAP of fruit and vegetable vendors in Ho City. Data on KAP was collected from 113 fruit and vegetable vendors in the Ho Central Market using a structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using a two-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to examine the association of demographic variables with knowledge, attitude, and practice of food hygiene and safety. A correlation analysis was conducted to determine the intercorrelation among the KAP variables. The results suggest significant differences for vendors with medical examination certificates on knowledge (Wilks = 0.60, F = 2.82, p˂0.00), attitude (Wilks = 0.71, F = 2.10, p˂0.01), and practice (Wilks = 0.59, F = 1.79, p˂0.01). A significant correlation was found between the three domains, but the influence of knowledge and attitude on practice was weak. Fruit and vegetable vendors' knowledge and attitudes toward food hygiene and safety were supportive and favorable. However, some practices were not supportive and encouraging toward food hygiene and safety. The lack of basic amenities in the market influenced the practice of vendors. Improved environmental sanitation conditions at local markets are vital to the practice of food hygiene and safety to prevent foodborne diseases.