Garden egg farmers’ behaviour to food safety practices in Nsukka agricultural zone, Enugu state, Nigeria

Foodborne illnesses remain a major global health concern, with fresh produce like the increasingly popular garden egg often linked to contamination outbreaks. Although garden egg is widely consumed in Nigeria, little is known about farmers’ food safety behaviours, creating a gap in understanding and managing on-farm contamination risks. This study addresses that gap by examining the food safety practices of garden egg farmers in Nsukka Agricultural Zone, Enugu State, Nigeria. Using structured questionnaires, data were collected from 60 garden egg farmers chosen through a multi-stage sampling process. The data were analysed using percentages, average scores, and frequency. Most (76.7%) respondents demonstrated a high level of food safety knowledge. Significantly, their attitudes are very positive, with farmers agreeing that safety measures result in higher-quality garden eggs (M = 4.97, S.D. = 0.18) and can protect consumers from health risks (M = 4.97, S.D. = 0.18). They also opposed the idea that small-scale farmers should ignore regulations (M = 4.78, S.D. = 0.56), showing their commitment to compliance regardless of farm size. Practically, farmers focused on preventing cross-contamination (M = 3.87, S.D. = 0.39) and ensuring the use of clean, safe water for washing (M = 3.52, S.D. = 0.65). The study concludes that farmers' high knowledge and positive attitudes towards food safety practices are key factors that can promote the production of higher-quality garden eggs, protect consumers from health risks, and boost their economic well-being. It recommends that policymakers and extension workers provide regular monitoring and support to encourage adherence to food safety standards and practices.