POLYTHENE BAG USE IN FOOD HANDLING AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG FOOD VENDORS IN INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS OF KABALAGALA, UGANDA

Abstract

This study explored the use of polythene bags in food handling among vendors in Kabalagala, Kampala, Uganda, and examined how various socio-demographic and structural factors contribute to this practice. The research applied the Socio-Ecological Model to evaluate individual, interpersonal, Institutional, community, and policy-level influences on polythene use. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, incorporating data from 150 food vendors collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using correlation analysis. Findings revealed statistically significant positive correlations between polythene bag use and lack of awareness on health effects (r = 0.604), limited access to eco-friendly alternatives (r = 0.732), and peer influence (r = 0.629). Similarly, customer preference showed a strong correlation (r = 0.740), underscoring the role of interpersonal dynamics. At the community level, weak enforcement of environmental regulations also correlated positively with frequent use (r = 0.526), while education level and access to financial support were negatively correlated (r = -0.438 and r = -0.486, respectively), indicating that higher education and economic stability reduce reliance on polythene bags. The study concludes that addressing polythene use in food handling requires a multifaceted intervention strategy involving education, enforcement, alternative packaging access, and community behavior change initiatives. Empowering vendors with knowledge and tools for safer packaging practices is crucial to mitigating health and environmental risks in informal urban economies.