ABSTRACT

Despite the known health threats associated with street food, its high demand continues to thrive among the public. This study responds to Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption by addressing the lack of localized literature on Escherichia coli (E. coli) contamination, particularly in street food dips around Lyceum of Alabang. The primary goal of this research is to develop an intervention plan through assessing the E. coli contamination levels in dips and evaluating the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of vendors regarding food sanitation and hygiene. Using a sequential explanatory research design, the quantitative phase involved microbiological testing of three street food dip samples from three different vendors. Results revealed that one out of three samples contained 4.23 MPN/g of E. coli, indicating a high contamination level. The qualitative phase, through vendor interviews, generated the following themes: (1) Knowledge – Limited Formal Knowledge on Food Sanitation and Awareness of Water Safety Varies; (2) Attitude – Value for Cleanliness Despite Lack of Training, Openness to Learning, and Pragmatic but Sometimes Complacent; and (3) Practice – Inconsistent Hygiene, Basic Food Protection, and Improvised Storage and Reuse. An evidence-based intervention plan was formulated to address the findings. Overall, the study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted training, resource support, and collaborative health policies to ensure safer street food consumption.,

Keywords: E. coli contamination, Street food sanitation, Vendor food safety practices, SDG 12

Author/s:

Matsushima, Kana L.
National University – Laguna

Bofill, Cassy Victoria P.
National University – Laguna

Turtur, Bea Charmel B.
National University – Laguna

Morella, Nina Svea T.
National University – Laguna

Habla, Elbert Josh J.
National University – Laguna

Arciaga, Szamantha Chil A.
National University – Laguna

Tanzo, John Carlo C.
johncarlo.tanzo@gmail.com
Lyceum of Alabang