Evaluation of Food Safety among Fast Food Operators in Madina, Accra

Abstract

The study evaluated food safety among fast food operators in Medina, Accra. Since food safety is a major concern with street foods as they are generally prepared and sold under unhygienic conditions. Food safety was defined as the conditions and measures that are necessary during the production, processing, storage, distribution and preparation of food to ensure that it is safe, sound, and wholesome and fit for human consumption. The study assessed fast food operators’ knowledge on food safety and identifying food safety measures and control of regulatory bodies in Ghana. Descriptive research design was used. A multistage sampling technique which combined both probability and non-probability sampling methods were used. Questionnaires and observations were used to collect data from respondents and analysed using descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies, and percentages. The study revealed that 94% representing majority of the fast food operators were aware of food safety. The study therefore recommends that education on safety and hygienic practices in food handlers must be intensified at every level by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with MDAs and other stakeholders so as to drive home dangers involved in neglects for such practices. In conclusion, food vendors are aware of food safety (Ministry of Health, 2003)

Keywords: Food safety, food operators, descriptive statistics, ministry of health, multistage sampling technique