Tshwane commits to safe food practices as schools reopen
Locals urged to remain vigilant and informed, purchasing food only from certified vendors and checking food labels, including date markings.
As the new academic year starts, the Tshwane metro has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and communities.
According to MMC for Health Tshegofatso Mashabela, an important part of this commitment includes addressing the issue of unsound foodstuffs infiltrating local food markets, particularly in educational institutions.
Mashabela stated that the sale of unsafe foodstuffs is a persistent challenge in neighbourhoods such as Soshanguve, Mamelodi, Olievenhoutbosch, Bronkhorstspruit, Hammanskraal and Atteridgeville.
She said spaza shops, which often serve as the primary source of affordable food for many families, have become targets for criminal networks that sell unsafe foodstuffs.
“This situation poses a direct threat to the health of our children and residents.”
To fight this issue, Mashabela said the department is proactively engaging with spaza shops within school premises and vendors selling outside and inside schools.
“The department aims to collaborate closely with these vendors, providing them with support and resources to meet regulatory requirements and ensure the safety of their foodstuffs,” she said.
“Regular inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with health standards.”
She said they will also provide educational resources to help vendors identify and avoid unsound, unwholesome, and contaminated foodstuffs.
Mashabela added that the metro will work with local law enforcement to dismantle criminal operations that threaten food markets.
“The City of Tshwane urges all residents to remain vigilant and informed, purchasing food only from certified vendors and checking food labels, including date markings.”
She also encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
City of Tshwane commits to safe food practices as schools resume the new academic year. pic.twitter.com/BwDYzw6R2q
— City of Tshwane (@CityTshwane) January 20, 2025
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