Bacteriological quality of ''doubles'' sold by street vendors in Trinidad and the attitudes, knowledge and perceptions of the public about its consumption and health risk

摘要: Abstract The bacteriological loads of “bara”, “channa”, condiments/spices and ready-to-consume “doubles” sold by street vendors in St. George Caroni counties Trinidad were determined. Questionnaires administered to 100 from both determine which their practices had effect on the quality products. In addition, a total 300 randomly selected members public interviewed using questionnaires, assess attitudes, knowledge perceptions concerning consumption. Of 196 samples each ready-to-eat tested, log 10 mean (±SD) aerobic plate count (TAPC) per g was 4.87±5.51, 5.79±6.61, 6.26±6.77 6.88±7.91, respectively. difference statistically significant ( P χ 2 ). Applying recommended maximum standard TAPC 5.00, (5.1%), 19 (9.7%), 57 (29.1%) 78 (39.8%) “doubles”, respectively, deemed unfit for human Vendor practices, significantly affected prevalence re-use leftover product =0.01), wearing hand gloves =0.02), availability water at sale outlet =0.0008) source =0.0008). Consumption more common amongst East Indians (69.2%) than other races (30.8%) >0.05) affect consumption “doubles”. high assessed coupled with higher proportion consumers non-consumers being aware that could cause food-poisoning, definitely poses health risk population. Enforcement sanitary during preparation should reduce risk.