Abstract

Unlabeled canned tuna products sold in informal markets present significant food safety concerns due to undocumented handling practices and potential pathogen exposure. Studies focusing on microbial safety of unlabeled goods  in the Philippines are very limited. Thus, this study evaluated the microbial safety of unlabeled canned tuna products sold in General Santos City, Philippines, alongside the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of their vendors. Thirty samples were analyzed for Escherichia coli (Multiple Tube Fermentation Technique) and Salmonella spp. (standard culture methods). Absence of both pathogens in all samples demonstrated FDA compliance for commercially sterile products.  A KAP survey of eight (8) purposively sampled vendors demonstrated critical gaps in awareness of Escherichia coli and Salmonella as foodborne pathogens, foodborne illnesses. Half of the vendors would continue selling unlabeled products despite known health risks to recoup losses. Additionally 75% of the vendors engaged in unmonitored repacking practices with undisclosed methods, 87.5% sold dented cans, and 62.5% sourced products from secondary suppliers. All respondents had severely inadequate hygiene practices.