Quality of street food in Trinidad

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effect of a public health intervention on the environmental conditions under which street-vended foods were prepared and offered for sale. DESIGN AND METHODS: A before and after cross sectional study was conducted on a sample of 80 itinerant food vendors in one County of Trinidad. Forty food samples were tested for the presence of three types of bacteria. Public health information was provided at the first visit to the food vendors. Four weeks later the same vendors were surveyed and further food samples taken. The data collected were subject to McNemar’s test to determine whether the proportions for the before and after measurements were significantly different. RESULTS: The findings demonstrated the presence of microorganisms with the potential to cause food borne illness in food offered by itinerant night vendors. The results also showed a significant increase in the number of units being registered (p < 0.001) and displaying food badges (p = 0.002) after the first interview. Similarly there were significant improvements in personal hygiene parameters reviewed at the second visit in terms of attire of vendors (p = 0.002); availability of potable water (p < 0.001); and the general appearance of the food handler (p=0.025). CONCLUSION: There appears to be a role for public health education sessions on food handling practices for food vendors. Government agencies should also provide premises for such food vending where there are ample and satisfactory water and sanitation facilities.