Consumption patterns of processed cold meat after listeriosis (Listeria Monocytogens) outbreak: A case study of North-West University (NWU) students, Mmabatho Campus, South Africa

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of a foodborne disease outbreak (Listeria Monocytogens) and factors which affect the consumption patterns of processed cold meat products by students at North-West University, Mmabatho Campus, South Africa. A well-structured questionnaire was used as a data collection instrument, 375 registered students who enrolled for postgraduate and undergraduate studies were randomly selected within two clusters. The sample size was calculated from the total population of 12864 students using RASOFT calculator. Data was captured and analysed using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25 computer software. Probit Regression Model was employed to identify factors influencing consumption patterns of students after the Listeria Monocytogens outbreak. Factors such as gender, residence, allowance (Income), meal preference, regulation of meals time, price of alternatives and academic level were found to be statistically significant and they do influence consumption patterns of processed cold meat by both undergraduate and postgraduate students in North-West University Mmabatho Campus. The study concluded that disease outbreaks (Listeria Monocytogens) do have a negative impact on student’s consumption patens and switching behaviour. Findings further revealed that disease outbreak led to the majority of students spending more time preparing meals and this may have a negative effect on their academic and/or extramural activities.