Food safety compliance practices in the Nigerian hospitality industry: A case study of hotels in Owerri, the capital city of Imo State

BSc. Oseoboh Isaac Ehovuomen, BSc

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Food safety compliance practices have been the focus of global attention as a means to reduce the occurrence of food contamination and foodborne diseases. This includes the hospitality industry, which has to ensure that food consumed within these establishments is safe and free from health-related risks. This study investigates food safety compliance practices among hospitality establishments in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, a city widely recognised in Nigeria as a rapidly growing hub for hospitality and tourism. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in which 89 hospitality staff were surveyed using structured questionnaires. These staff were drawn from 114 registered hotels across Owerri using a random sampling technique, and the survey was conducted between February and March 2023. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed to analyse the data. The findings of the negative binomial regression reveal that food safety knowledge significantly influences compliance levels. Furthermore, the study identified that regular staff training and the frequency of monitoring by regulatory agencies are significant (p = 0.028 and p = 0.036, respectively) predictors of adherence to food safe-ty compliance. However, the study also identified financial constraints and infrastructural deficiencies as major challenges hindering the effective implementation of food safety practices. The study emphasises the need for continuous professional development, stronger enforcement by regulatory bodies, and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of food safety practices. Addressing these factors is essential to improving food safety compliance in Owerri's hospitality sector and safeguarding public health.

Keywords

tourism, knowledge, regulatory agencies, monitoring, regulatory standards, training, clients, public health, challenges

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 24. 4. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Vedoucí: doc. Ing. Miroslava Bavorová, Ph.D.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Magisterský studijní program:
International Development and Agricultural Economics