Police in Sebokeng have launched an investigation into school vendors selling a suspicious, gravy-like substance known as “lalaza” to pupils.

The product, which comes in small plastic bags, is being sold as a flavourant for school meals or packed lunches. However, authorities believe the product is actually discarded waste, including used oil, old sauce, and leftover chicken pieces collected from popular restaurants, instead of being thrown away.

Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane issued an urgent warning during a visit to Boiketlong Primary School, where officers found and confiscated several packets from students.
“We are calling for all vendors to stop selling this product to kids,” she said.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Mokhachane said authorities further alerted the vendors selling snacks to kids to refrain from selling it to kids, as it may be hazardous to their health.

In 2024, the Gauteng Department of Education instructed tuck shops, vendors, and traders to operate on school premises only if they comply with requirements or after completing verification and compliance.

GDE Spokesperson Steve Mabona said districts and schools were also required to implement specific measures, including submitting daily reports on food-related incidents using a standardised template, sharing food safety tips and awareness materials to prevent foodborne illnesses, and following the national school nutrition programme guidelines.

“When it comes to what kids consume, precaution must be taken at all times. We are not going to wait for an incident where a child falls sick before we take action,” Mokhachane said.

Mokhachane said investigations are ongoing to find out exactly where the waste is coming from and to stop it from reaching more children.