FOOD SAFETY PERCEPTIONS VS REALITY: THE CASE OF PERI-URBAN AREAS OF RAWALPINDI, PAKISTAN
M. K. Bashir, M. Ashfaq, M. K. Sharif, G. Ali
1, 3 M. K. Bashir, M. Ashfaq, M. K. Sharif, G. Ali 12
1 Institute of Agricultural and Resource Economics, National Institute of Food Sciences and Technology, University of
3 Key Lab of Urban Environment & Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen,
Page Number(s):
1128-1141
Published Online First:
August 01, 2018
Publication Date:
August 01, 2018
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the differences in people's preferences about food safety vs ground realities in peri-urban areas of Rawalpindi, Pakistan. For this purpose, primary data were collected from 103 residents. Perceptions regarding various aspects of water and food safety were recorded using a well developed questionnaire that incorporated both open and closed ended questions. Samples of drinking water and vegetables from the study areas were collected. A mixed-method research approach was applied to permit qualitative and quantitative investigation. Results showed that the majority of the households perceived that they consume safe drinking water (74%) and food ( 83%). However, at the same time they contradicted with their perception while reporting the incidence of waterborne diseases. 72% of the respondents reported that one of more household members suffered from water borne diseases during last month (from interview) . Chemical tests of water and vegetables confirmed that drinking water and vegetables available in the study area were not suitable for human consumption. It is recommended that the awareness level of households must be improved. immune and neurological systems ( Colborn, 1995; Saal et
Keywords:
Food safety, Water borne diseases, Heavy metals, Pesticide residues, Chemical food analysis.