Sanitation Conditions of Street Food Vendors and Their Potential Risk for Foodborne Diseases

Abstract

This study aims to examine the sanitation conditions of street food vendors and analyze their potential contribution to foodborne disease risks within an urban informal food sector. A qualitative approach was employed using a descriptive case study design, selected to enable an in-depth and contextualized understanding of environmental sanitation and vendor behavior without experimental manipulation. The research was conducted in a densely populated urban area in Indonesia characterized by a high concentration of street food activities, chosen due to its representativeness and public health relevance. A total of fifteen informants were purposively selected, consisting of ten street food vendors, three local health officers, and two consumers, based on their direct involvement and knowledge of sanitation practices. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis, and analyzed using thematic techniques. The findings reveal that sanitation conditions are generally inadequate, including limited access to clean water, poor waste management, and inconsistent hygiene practices, which collectively increase the risk of contamination. The study recommends strengthening sanitation infrastructure, enhancing vendor awareness, and implementing risk-based food safety interventions to reduce foodborne disease risks.