Food Hygiene Practices and Environmental Exposure: Microbial Safety Assessment of Foodstuffs Sold at Ngwa Road Market, Aba, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates the food hygiene practices and environmental exposure contributing to microbial contamination of foodstuffs sold at Ngwa Road Market, Aba, Nigeria. A total of 50 food samples—including fresh produce and ready-to-eat items—were randomly collected and analyzed for total viable bacterial counts and presence of pathogenic microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus). Concurrently, vendor hygiene practices and environmental factors were assessed using structured questionnaires and observations. Results showed microbial loads exceeding recommended safety limits, with 40%, 22%, and 35% contamination rates for E. coli, Salmonella spp., and S. aureus respectively. Poor hygiene practices and environmental exposure, such as proximity to open drains and waste disposal sites, were significant contributors. The findings highlight critical gaps in food safety at Ngwa Road Market and the urgent need for regulatory enforcement and hygiene education to reduce public health risks.