<![CDATA[The safety of traditional market snacks is related not only to public health but also to information quality and market efficiency. This study aims to analyze potential market failure associated with the use of prohibited food additives or substances that do not meet food safety requirements, focusing on information asymmetry and negative externalities. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed through a literature review and policy analysis. Data were analyzed by classifying, comparing, and synthesizing findings from 25 journal articles published between 2021 and 2026, along with relevant policy documents. The findings indicate that consumers often have limited information about the ingredients and processing methods used in traditional market snacks, while vendors’ knowledge and food safety test results vary across studies. These conditions may impair informed purchasing decisions and distort market mechanisms. However, the findings do not establish that all traditional market snacks are unsafe. Risk-based supervision, transparent information disclosure, food safety education, and continuous policy evaluation are therefore necessary to reduce information asymmetry, strengthen consumer protection, and promote a more transparent and efficient traditional food market.]]>
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