Background of the Study
Street food is an integral part of the urban culture in Kano State, providing affordable and accessible meals to a diverse population. However, the safety of street food has been a persistent public health concern due to inadequate regulatory oversight and inconsistent hygiene practices. Street food vendors often operate in environments where access to clean water, proper storage facilities, and sanitary cooking conditions is limited (Ibrahim, 2024; Adeyemi, 2023).
The regulatory framework governing street food safety is intended to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses by setting standards for food handling, preparation, and sale. Despite these regulations, enforcement is frequently lax due to resource constraints and the informal nature of street vending. As a result, there is a significant gap between the prescribed standards and the actual practices observed in the field. Numerous studies have indicated that non-compliance with food safety regulations is associated with a higher risk of food contamination and subsequent outbreaks of foodborne diseases (Chukwu, 2024).
This study aims to appraise the current street food safety regulations in Kano State, examining their effectiveness, implementation challenges, and impact on public health. The research will involve a review of policy documents, field observations, and interviews with vendors and regulatory officials. By identifying the gaps in enforcement and the factors that contribute to non-compliance, the study seeks to provide recommendations for strengthening regulatory frameworks and improving food safety outcomes. The ultimate goal is to ensure that street food, a vital part of the local economy and culture, is safe for consumers while supporting the livelihoods of vendors (Ogunleye, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the existence of street food safety regulations in Kano State, there remains a significant disconnect between policy and practice. Many street food vendors continue to operate without adhering to established hygiene and safety standards, resulting in frequent cases of food contamination and foodborne illnesses. The informal nature of street vending and limited enforcement by regulatory agencies have allowed non-compliance to persist, posing serious risks to public health (Lawal, 2024).
The regulatory bodies responsible for monitoring street food safety face numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, limited manpower, and bureaucratic inefficiencies. These issues hinder effective oversight and reduce the impact of existing regulations. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness among vendors regarding the importance of food safety, further complicating efforts to ensure compliance. This gap in enforcement and education undermines consumer confidence and contributes to a high incidence of foodborne diseases, which strain local healthcare resources (Adebayo, 2023).
This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of street food safety regulations in Kano State by examining current practices, enforcement mechanisms, and the perceptions of both vendors and consumers. Addressing these challenges is critical for developing strategies that enhance regulatory oversight and promote safer food handling practices among street vendors.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on urban areas in Kano State where street food vending is prevalent. Data will be collected through observations, vendor interviews, and regulatory reviews. Limitations include potential resistance from vendors and the informal nature of the sector affecting data accuracy.
Definitions of Terms
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