UPDATE: Masakhane Cook Freeze Factory shut down after E coli discovery
The Gauteng department of health acted swiftly after E coli contamination was detected at Masakhane Cook Freeze Factory, assuring hospitals, including Charlotte Maxeke, that patients are receiving safe, nutritious meals while the factory undergoes deep cleaning and improvements.
The Gauteng department of health has confirmed that immediate action was taken following the detection of E coli contamination at the Masakhane Cook Freeze Factory during a City of Tshwane inspection in October 2025.
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Production was halted as soon as the notice was received, affected products were recalled, quarantined, and safely disposed of under city supervision.
Several healthcare facilities, including Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Odi Hospital, Tshwane District Hospital, Bronkhorstspruit Hospital, Jubilee Hospital, and Lenasia South Hospital, were affected by the temporary food shortage. Hospitals quickly activated contingency plans to ensure patients continued to receive meals. Currently, meals are being prepared on-site using raw ingredients supplied by Masakhane Cook Freeze, with careful attention to nutritional adequacy.
Also read: City rivers E. coli count still high
The factory is undergoing a thorough deep cleaning, including the installation of a new water purification system, and continuous testing of food safety protocols.
The department said it is committed to strengthening oversight, implementing rigorous monitoring, and providing continuous training for food service staff to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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