Prevalence of Unsafe Pharmaceutical and Health Products in the Grocery Stores within Bangkok Metropolitan Area: A Case Study of Phasi Charoen and Bang Khun Thian Districts

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the prevalence of unsafe pharmaceutical and health products in the grocery stores in Phasi Charoen and Bang Khun Thian districts, Bangkok Metropolitan Area, and to assess health product literacy among grocery store operators. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a nested qualitative component was conducted. Quantitative data were collected from 115 grocery stores using structured inspections and standardized assessment tools, namely the Grocery Store–Rational Drug Use (G-RDU) and Grocery Store–Safety Health Products (G-SHP) instruments. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 grocery store operators to contextualize quantitative findings. Results: Of the 115 grocery stores surveyed, 36 (31.3%) sold medicines, of which 25 stores (21.7% of all stores) sold medicines beyond household remedies. Based on risk classification criteria, 80.87% of stores were classified as low-risk, 4.35% as moderate-risk stores, and 14.78% as high-risk stores. Overall, 48 stores (41.7%) met G-RDU or G-SHP quality standards. The mean health product literacy score among operators was 76.99 ± 15.45 (out of 115), with 46.1% achieving scores ≥90. Literacy scores were highest in the “understanding” domain and lowest in “information sharing.” Operators from the high-risk stores demonstrated significantly lower literacy scores compared with those from low-risk stores. Qualitative findings revealed operators’ uncertainty regarding legal classifications of health products, reliance on customer demand, and limited access to formal training, which helped explain observed quantitative patterns. Conclusion: Urban grocery stores remain an important access point for health products but pose potential risks due to gaps in regulatory compliance and operator health product literacy. Strengthening targeted training programs, developing clear regulatory guidance manuals for grocery store operators, and expanding G-RDU and G-SHP initiatives may enhance consumer safety and promote more sustainable retail practices.