Cultural and Behavioral Factors Related with Non-compliance to Hygienic Rules by Food Vendors in Primary and Secondary School in the Benoue Division - Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Unhealthy foods containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals
cause illnesses ranging from diarrhea to cancer. The objective of this study was to investigate
the behavioral and cultural practices responsible for non-compliance with hygiene rules by
commercial food vendors in primary and secondary schools in the Benoue division of
Cameroon. Based on the results obtained, we recommend to decision-makers the need to ensure
a quality diet served in schools, respect for hygiene rules and the practice of regular physical
activity which both contribute to the good - cognitive and mental being of children. Method:
We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional analysis in the Benoue division of Cameroon.
Quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. Prospective data were
collected from 172 food vendors within this locality. A well-structured questionnaire and an
observation guide were used for data collection. Ethical approval was provided by the IRB of
the Catholic University of Central Africa. Results: The results show that 57% of participants
were not aware of neither practiced optimal hygiene rules. More than 78.1% of the respondents
did not wash their hands before serving food. Other cultural and behavioral determinants such
as cleanliness, wearing of aprons, and owning a dust bin influenced vendors' respect of hygienic
rules with a significance of 05% (p <0.05). Conclusion: Our findings show that cultural and
behavioral determinants factors influence the practice of hygienic rules in schools. Training
these minor business owners on adequate hygienic practice will optimize respect for aseptic
rules.