Assessing Awareness, Attitude, and Practice of Food Safety Among the Population of Quetta, Pakistan

Abstract

Foodborne diseases are increasing at an alarming rate in Pakistan. An increase in gastrointestinal disorder outbreaks has demanded implementation of hygiene and quality practices. Food can initiate epidemics and serves as a growth substrate for bacterial and other food poisoning agents. This study evaluates knowledge, attitudes, and practices among food handlers in maintaining food hygiene in Quetta city. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to highlight gaps in food safety knowledge among the population. Survey results reveal the need for consumer education regarding safe food handling practices. Respondents belonging to every sphere of life participated in this survey. Food safety knowledge, practices, and attitudes of food handlers indicate that food-handling problems are needed to be addressed. Our research showed that respondents were aware of hygienic practices before preparing and eating food. However, more than half of the respondents were unaware that Salmonella typhi is a foodborne pathogen. We found 74% of the male and 26% female food handlers were unaware of proper hygienic practices. More than 65% of respondents had poorly developed sewage system which floods during rainy seasons causing a rise in these diseases. Our survey revealed the need for consumer education regarding safe food handling practices from purchasing food to dealing with home. Unhygienic food preparation standards, unavailability of clean water as major factors of food poisoning in third world countries. Microbiologists should take the load to ensure proper knowledge about food pathogens. Continuous education and training can strengthen food handler's knowledge in required areas.