Understanding the impact of social determinants of health in street food safety: a qualitative study in Bangladesh

Abstract

ABSTRACTStreet food is one of the informal sectors, especially in developing countries where it fulfils the daily food requirements for many low- and middle-income people. However, the lack of awareness about food safety and unsafe food consumption increase the burden of diseases which impacts on the health and economic condition of both vendors and customers. The ad hoc-based intervention programmes on some particular groups or area cannot be able to promote the knowledge in mass level. Moreover, we need to focus on understanding the other social determinants of health impacting on the behaviour of unsafe street food practices. A qualitative study on understanding the social determinants of health-related with street food safety and health promotion activities was conducted in Khulna city, a third major city in Bangladesh. Both vendors and customers were participated in the study through interviews and focus group discussions. Based on the qualitative thematic analysis of data, four wider social determinants of health were found in major which have a strong impact on street food safety behavioural practices among vendors and consumers. Moreover, these determinants also play as barriers to achieve food safety knowledge and practice. Lack of focus on these determinants by macro-level stakeholders, lack of convenient educational materials or promotional activities increase the severity of the situation. Based on the outcome and participant recommendation, a model has been developed to tackle the situation where collaborative approach is required among all related stakeholders.