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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | Brewing and consumptions practices of indigenous traditional beer in a typical South African semi-urban area |
Author: | Lues, J.F.R. |
Year: | 2009 |
Periodical: | Indilinga: African Journal of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (ISSN 1683-0296) |
Volume: | 8 |
Issue: | 2 |
Pages: | 163-174 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | South Africa |
Subjects: | beer hygiene indigenous knowledge drinking customs |
Abstract: | This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, behaviour and practices regarding the food safety and brewing methods applicable to the manufacturing of traditional beer as well as consumer perceptions. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 30 informal brewers and 90 traditional beer consumers in a semi-urban area in South Africa. The data indicate that, while brewers are still using the same traditional brewing methods, 75 percent brew for commercial purposes instead of traditional reasons. All consumers drink to relieve stress and are aware of possible toxic ingredients although unconcerned. While the majority of the brewers lack refrigeration facilities, improper hygiene practices do not appear to be the result of a lack of infrastructure. Fifty-five percent of brewers wash the containers when dirty, while 45 percent wash them after use. Unhygienic practices such as failure to cover the hair and wearing jewellery while brewing indicate a lack of knowledge regarding proper hygiene. There is a need to establish and implement awareness programmes pertaining to personal and general hygiene. This, together with regulations governing the licensing of informal brewers, should improve the general hygiene practices, microbial contamination of the beer and contribute to minimizing health risks to the traditional beer consumer. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract] |