Consumer behavior and its role in E. coli outbreaks: the impact of fast-food preparation practices and hygiene awareness.

Background: The fast-food industry, a rapidly expanding business due to the influence of urbanization and busy lifestyles, has significantly shaped consumer food habits and quality food-seeking behavior. However, this fast-growing sector is frequently challenged by bacteria of clinical, microbiological, and economic importance, including Escherichia coli (E. coli).