Dataset on vegetable vendors in Lubumbashi
Description
The dataset presents crucial informaton on the perceptions of environmental pollution and hygienic practices among 215 women vegetable vendors operating in major open markets in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The database was established by Salifu Adam (2025) following a survey conducted in Lubumbashi, based on the hypothesis that vendors are aware of the severity of environmental pollution in Lubumbashi, which affects food quality, and that this awareness could encourage them to adopt more rigorous hygiene practices when marketing vegetables. Data reveal that vendors are aware of contamination risks from mining activities but underestimate hazards from vehicle emissions when selling vegetables by the roadside. Most respondents (85%) reported accessing market tap water and washing vegetables before displaying them for sale; however, the observed water quality and cleaning practices cannot ensure food safety. We observed that vendors reused the same water multiple times and applied palm oil when displaying tomatoes—a common practice believed to preserve freshness, but one that may increase the risk of microbial and contaminant buildup, thereby compromising food safety. This study provides baseline data to inform policy and public health interventions aimed at strengthening vendor awareness, improving hygiene practices, and promoting safer vegetable supply chains.
Files
Steps to reproduce
market survey and descriptive statistics
Institutions
- Universite de Lubumbashi