The Influence of Environmental Factors on Hygiene and Sanitation Practices Among Food Vendors in Ilorin West, Kwara State.

ABSTRACT
Street food vending is a critical component of the urban food system in Nigeria, particularly in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, where it offers affordable meals and employment opportunities to low-income residents. However, these vendors often operate under poor environmental conditions that compromise hygiene and sanitation standards, posing serious risks to public health. This study investigated the influence of environmental factors on hygiene and sanitation practices among food vendors in Ilorin West and the reason for this is that I wanted to examine how these environmental conditions affect food vendors’ hygiene and sanitation practices and how this in turn impacts public health. A descriptive survey research design was adopted to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the current practices and environmental challenges. This method allowed for the systematic collection of data from a large group without manipulating the environment or variables. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary instrument to gather data from 150 purposively selected food vendors across major vending sites such as Oja Oba and Taiwo Road. The questionnaire captured data on demographic characteristics, hygiene practices, environmental constraints, and the availability of sanitary resources. The study tested two significant hypotheses and these are; there is no significant relationship between environmental factors and food hygiene and sanitation practices and there is no significant relationship between the availability of clean water and hygiene practices among food vendors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation analysis). The results revealed that most food vendors operate in unsanitary environments, often located near open drainages, refuse dumps, and without access to clean water, toilets, or proper waste disposal systems. The findings showed a statistically significant relationship between environmental factors and hygiene practices, rejecting both null hypotheses. Vendors’ practices were also influenced by educational background, training, and seasonal conditions like flooding. Based on the findings, the study recommends a multi-stakeholder intervention involving government agencies, local authorities, health departments, and the vendors themselves. Priority should be given to the provision of water facilities, sanitary infrastructure, regular health inspections, and targeted food hygiene education suited to vendors’ literacy levels. These efforts are crucial to improving food safety, preventing disease outbreaks, and protecting public health in urban informal food sectors.