Nomakhosazana Meth, the Health MEC of the Eastern Cape, demands stricter food safety checks and penalties for shopkeepers selling expired products.Images-EC department of health facebook/File
Eastern Cape learners’ illness sparks food safety alert
Eastern Cape’s Health MEC, calls for STRICT food safety inspections and tougher penalties for shop owners who sell expired items.
Nomakhosazana Meth, the Health MEC of the Eastern Cape, demands stricter food safety checks and penalties for shopkeepers selling expired products.Images-EC department of health facebook/File
Nomakhosazana Meth, the Health MEC of the Eastern Cape, demands stricter food safety checks and penalties for shopkeepers selling expired products.
Currently, 143 students are grappling with symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, itchiness, a high temperature, and shortness of breath.
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Eastern Cape sounds alarm on learner food safety
This alarming situation unfolded as 23 more students from a third school in Komani’s Mlungisi township were swiftly taken to Frontier Hospital today.
Just a day before (October), 120 students received medical care in local hospitals and clinics.
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In recent weeks, the nation has seen a sudden increase in suspected food poisoning cases, resulting in the tragic deaths of two children who consumed snacks purchased from a Gauteng store.
Though no fatalities have been reported in the Eastern Cape due to suspected food poisoning, one learner remains in intensive care.
Call for store owners to take accountability
Meth states, “The law must take its course against shop owners selling expired food items.”
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The MEC urged municipalities to work closely with law enforcement agencies to strengthen food safety checks. These laws give municipalities the authority to impose fines on violators, close non-compliant shops, and make arrests.
Expressing her deep concern about the surge in suspected food poisoning cases, MEC Meth stressed the importance of these checks.
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Although the exact cause of illness in the 143 affected learners is yet to be confirmed, they have all reported buying snacks and food from local vendors and shops.
The Eastern Cape is facing a health crisis, with a primary emphasis on protecting the health of its students and communities.
“In these difficult times, ensuring food safety through inspections is now a vital and indispensable action,” said Meth.
