Authors: Ernestina Oduro, Gilbert Owiah Sampson, Elizabeth Kafui Senya
Eating at home remains very much ingrained in Ghanaian culture but rapid urbanization coupled with busy lifestyle and advancement in technology has greatly changed the way of life of many Ghanaians. These changes have altered the tradition of cooking and eating at home. The study focused on the determinants of consumer patronage of street foods in the Koforidua Metropolis. The target population comprised customers that patronize the street foods in Koforidua Metropolis. From the target population, 197 consumers were selected using convenience. A structured self-administered questionnaire was utilized to gather the required data. The data collected were coded and analyzed with the help of SPSS-23. The findings revealed that food characteristics and social status determines consumers patronage of street food. It became evident that age (r=0.261, p<0.01), age (r=-0.318, P<0.01), educational level (r=0.144, P<0.05) and occupation (r=-0.477, P<0.01) of consumers has a significant influence on the decision and patronage of street food. The study concluded that food characteristics and social factors are major determinants of consumers patronage of street foods. It is recommended that Food and Drug Authority (FDA), other stakeholders, and street food vendors work cooperatively to establish laws that capture the distinctive and diverse foods sold on the street and their various preparation, storage, and sale methods in order to ensure that food preparation and sales are safe and hygienic.
]]>Authors: Patience Darko, Juliana Opoku Yeboah, Francesca Anowie, Esther Kumea Ashun, Florentina Ajibisa, Manasseh Edison Komla Amu
Background: Traditional foods, once carriers of cultural identity and heritage, are being quietly replaced as globalization and modern ideals redefine the choices of younger generations. This ethnographic study investigated the cultural meaning and symbolism of Tuei, an indigenous maize-based beverage, among the Fante people in the Central Region of Ghana. The study aimed to document how Tuei is rooted in Fante social and ceremonial life, exploring its role as a symbol of identity, continuity, and tradition. Methods: A qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews were done with 7 participants involving one cultural expert, three elders, and three local producers. Results: The findings revealed that Tuei has a significant role in rites of passage such as marriages, funerals, and naming ceremonies, where it functions as a marker of status and social cohesion. It was daily used as a gesture of hospitality and symbol of community unity. Additionally, the study found that the nutritional benefits of Tuei was rich in essential nutrients from maize, which contribute to energy provision and digestion. Some participants also reported its traditional use in promoting digestive health and general well-being. Again, Tuei was influenced by modernization which has reduced its consumption among younger generations and elite groups. Conclusions: The study concluded with recommendations to strengthen these preservation efforts through educational initiatives, the integration of Tuei into cultural festivals, and ongoing community engagement to ensure the continuity of this cultural practice.
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