How Important Are the Perceptions and Barriers to Implementing On-Farm Food Safety Practices Among Salad Vegetable Farmers Evidence From Eastern Region, Ghana.

Abstract

This study assessed the perceptions and challenges faced by vegetable farmers in implementing on-farm food safety practices. Primary data for the analysis were based on survey data from a sample of N = 390 farmers in the Eastern Region, a major vegetable production region of Ghana. The data was analyzed using the relative importance index (RII) and problem confrontation index (PCI). Results indicated that farmers recognize and prioritize their responsibility to ensure vegetable safety as the most critical factor (RII = 0.8964; PCI = 1748) in promoting food safety along the salad vegetable production chain. Inadequate resources, such as clean water and equipment, were also identified as significant barriers (RII = 0.8653; PCI = 1683), along with awareness of the risks posed by unclean vegetables produced (RII = 0.8610; PCI = 1679). Although farmers reported strong awareness of safe practices, the PCI results revealed that structural constraints, especially limited access to resources and insufficient training, impede the consistent application of on-farm food safety measures. Behavioral factors linked to time constraints and motivation to practice hygienic practices were perceived as less problematic but notable. The findings highlight the need for targeted (as opposed to standardized or uniform) interventions combining resource provision, capacity building, and technical education to enhance food safety compliance among vegetable farmers. Addressing the farm-level gaps is vital to reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and improving public health outcomes.