Food safety practices among local food processors in Agricultural Zone 2 of Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined food safety practices among local food processors in Agricultural Zone 2 of Rivers State. In rural areas, traditional agricultural practices pose significant risks to public health and economic well-being. The study aimed to describe the socio-economic characteristics of food processors, their knowledge of food safety and handling practices, the availability and adequacy of infrastructure and facilities for maintaining food safety standards, and challenges faced in complying with food safety regulations and the regulatory framework. Agricultural Zone 2 was purposively selected and respondents were purposively selected from the study area. A total of 120 respondents were used for the study. The results showed that most respondents were female (65.0%), had primary education (56.7%), and earned between ₦20 ₦ 40,000 (31.7%). However, their knowledge and practices regarding food safety were inadequate, with only 35.8% having a regular cleaning schedule, 24.2% using safe water, and 20.8% testing finished products for safety. The study also found that while some processors used personal protective equipment (40.8%) and had proper hand-washing facilities (82.5%), many lacked accesses to food thermometers (39.2%), water treatment facilities (20.0%), and financial resources (78.5%). The analysis revealed significant correlations between socio-economic characteristics and food safety measures, one of which is between educational level and food safety adoption (r=0.68). The study concludes that ensuring food safety in the rural supply chain is crucial for public health and economic development. Recommendations include enhancing educational programs and establishing financial assistance programs by the government to support local food processors in adopting proper food safety practices.