Food hygiene practices and associated factors among food handlers in Bufunda division Ibanda municipality, Ibanda district, Uganda

Abstract

Introduction: Food handlers play a crucial role in ensuring food hygiene as well as the transmission of food poisoning. To ensure that consumers are served safe food, handlers should take safety precautions during preparation, cooking, storage and serving. However, most of the food handlers do not take into considerations the specific sanitary requirements needed for various steps in food preparations which has continued to be a public health concern. Study objectives: To assess the food hygiene practices and associated factors among food handlers in Bufunda division Ibanda municipality. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted in Bufunda Division among food handlers utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain the key informants basing on their knowledge on food hygiene while a random sampling technique was used to sample 108 respondents for quantitative findings among food handlers. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire, analyzed and interpreted using tables, graphs and narrations. Qualitative data was analyzed annually by thematic analysis. Results: Slightly more than half 57 (52.8%) of food handlers were male. Over two-thirds 73 (67.6%) of food handlers had good food hygiene practices characterized by; proper cleaning of the food storage area before storing new products 99 (91.7%), wearing an apron while working 80 (74.1%) among others. Having attended a training on food hygiene and safety (APR=3; CI=0.1-0.5) together with being a Muslim (APR=2.6; CI=0.1-0.8) by religion were the statistically significant factors associated with food hygiene. In addition, it was reported that logistical support through provision of cheap water and access to water services to food handlers within their premises should be given a priority. Additionally, it was reported that the level of education on sanitation and hygiene among food handlers on food hygiene is insufficient there by requiring regular supervision. Conclusion: In this study, prevalence of food hygiene practices among food handlers was relatively low. Muslim food handlers were more likely to practice good food hygiene practices than other food handlers of other religious beliefs were. Participation and attendance in a food and safety training was responsible for good food hygiene practices among food handlers.