SABC News recently hosted ASC Public Health and Food Safety Consultants in an interview to discuss the rising rates of Food Safety incidents in South Africa. The conversation centred around what could be the culprit behind the occurrences threatening the lives of South Africans.
The interview discusses how Food Safety incidents and mortality rates have been associated with poor enforcement of the current Food Safety regulations in various parts of the supply chain. The lack of government oversight of retailers and traders to monitor compliance has been a significant cause of Food Safety incidents.
The discussion also touched on the significant risks posed by inadequate pest control management. Highly hazardous pesticides are readily available for domestic use and sold without control. There is poor compliance with Act 36 of 1947 with respect to chemical handling. It was discussed that food business owners often lack awareness of the dangers associated with the pest control chemicals they use.
Effective control in the supply chain is crucial, starting from the purchase of registered chemicals to their safe application. Mthokozisi further explained that poor handling of these chemicals can lead to product contamination, particularly during repackaging, and may result in harmful substances entering the final product, consequently leading to food safety incidents.
Media Outlet: SABC News
ASC Public Health and Food Safety Specialist Interviewed: Mthokozisi Nkosi
Date: 16 November 2024
