KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF FOOD HYGIENE AMONG STREET FOOD VENDORS IN JOS NORTH LGA, PLATEAU STATE

food hygiene practices are essential in preventing foodborne diseases and ensuring public health safety, especially in urban areas where street food vending is widespread. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of food hygiene among street food vendors in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed using a quantitative method of data collection. A total of 278 respondents were selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using a well-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Out of the 278 respondents, the majority 222 (79.86%) had knowledge of food hygiene, while 56 (20.14%) had poor knowledge. In terms of practice, 217 (78.06%) reported regular cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation surfaces, and 209 (75.18%) covered food to prevent contamination. However, only 199 (71.58%) stored perishable food at the recommended temperatures. The study also identified several barriers to food hygiene, including lack of access to clean water 173 (62.23%), high cost of cleaning materials 177 (63.67%), inadequate storage facilities 173 (62.23%), and lack of hygiene training 171 (61.51%). The study concluded that while knowledge and practice levels among street food vendors in Jos north were fairly good, significant barriers hinder consistent application of hygiene practices. It is recommended that among others local health authorities strengthen training, improve infrastructure, and enforce hygiene regulations to reduce the burden of foodborne illnesses in the area.