Consumers Perceptions on Street Food and its Safety in the context of Mass Tourism: A Case Study in Lebanon

Abstract

Background: Street food has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, offering various food options ranging from traditional dishes to international cuisines. Nevertheless, food safety concerns persist, including contamination from inadequate cooking and hygiene practices.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze consumers’ behavior and perceptions of street food in Batroun, which has become a popular destination in Lebanon, and to assess compliance with food safety standards during the city's annual Christmas Market held in December.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved consumers and non-consumers of street food. Participants completed a questionnaire covering demographic information, purchasing behavior, factors influencing choices, perception of sanitary conditions, and post-consumption experiences. Additionally, a food safety assessment of the street food outlets was conducted, which involved the collection of swabs and food samples, followed by microbiological analysis. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS statistical software (version 27).

Results: The study included 226 street food consumers aged 18 to 64, who indicated that taste is the primary factor influencing street food purchasing. Males and younger adults were more likely to be consumers than females and older individuals. Other factors affecting consumption included financial status, nutritional value, and price among others. Most participants considered street food safe; however, many non-consumers highlighted concerns about its consumption. In addition, 60 swabs from 20 street food kiosks were collected during the Christmas Market in Batroun revealing the presence of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on some food-contact surfaces. Also, the microbial quality of street foods was assessed, with all 24 samples falling within the good range for E. coli and Salmonella spp.

Conclusion: There is a high street food consumption during the Christmas market especially among males and younger individuals. Microbial analysis of swabs and samples revealed generally satisfactory hygiene standards, although there are concerns regarding potential contamination. Future studies could examine whether there are variations in consumer perceptions or food safety among festive events across the year.