Assessment of Vendors’ Knowledge of Hygiene Practices and the Microbiological Quality of Animal-Derived Food at the Togo–Benin Border (Sanvee-Condji and Hillah-Condji)

Abstract

Background: Global demand for animal proteins continues to rise. According to the FAO, between 2020 and 2021, the production of meat, fish and dairy products increased by 4.2 %, 2 % and 1.5 % respectively, driven by rapid urbanisation, demographic growth and the expansion of street‐food culture. Aim: In a context where consumer health safety is paramount, this study aimed to assess animal product vendors’ knowledge of good hygiene practices and the microbiological quality of these foods at the Togo–Benin border (Sanvée-Condji and Hillah-Condji). Methods: A sociodemographic and behavioural survey was conducted among 70 vendors using a structured questionnaire. Simultaneously, 70 ready-to-eat animal product samples were collected at Sanvée-Condji (Togo) and Hillah-Condji (Benin). Microbiological analyses were performed according to standardised AFNOR methods, targeting faecal coliforms and total aerobic mesophilic flora as indicators of sanitary quality and failures in thermal control. Results: The surveyed population consisted predominantly of women (70 %) with a median age of 45 years (interquartile range: 32–55 years). Over 65 % had no formal schooling, and 80 % were married. Although the 35–49 age group—representing 44.3 % of participants—corresponds to professional maturity, only 10 % of the vendors—all women—demonstrated a good level of knowledge and practice of hygiene measures. This gap was attributed to insufficient on-site sanitary inspection. Microbiologically, 80 % of the samples exceeded recommended limits for indicator organisms, indicating unsatisfactory hygienic quality and breakdowns in cold or heat chains. Conclusion: The findings highlight an urgent need to strengthen training and awareness programs for animal product vendors on good hygiene practices, as well as to reinforce sanitary controls at border transfer points between Togo and Benin.