RISK OF CONTAMINATIO IN STREET FOODS

Abstract

Objective: To research the risks of contamination in food consumed in the street.

Design / methodology / approach: A search was conducted through publications in different scientific and academic databases.

Results: The literature reports that street food trade is common in developing countries. This informal activity in the food sector is the source of employment and income for millions of people in rural and urban areas of the world. However, due to the lack of sanitary inspection by the corresponding authorities, it gives rise to unhygienic practices that generate diseases associated with the consumption of food.

Study limitations / implications: Microbiological contamination is the most important risk to health, while the use of unauthorized chemicals and environmental contamination are also related to food contamination. However, in order to guarantee the safety of foods sold on the street, it is necessary for sellers and consumers to understand the basic principles and measures of food safety, which are established in the official norms and regulations of health organizations.

Findings / Conclusions: Above all, it is recommended to strengthen the implementation of public policies to guarantee the sale of safe foods.