Basic Training to intensify food safety awareness

Urgent calls for action have been made following a number of suspected cases of food poisoning in the country, where concerns were raised about the quality of products sold by spaza shops and street vendors.

Dozens of students have recently fallen ill in KZN, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Basic Education spokesman Elijah Mhlanga said the ministry was concerned about increasing reports of food poisoning in school-going children.

In all cases, students had eaten items purchased from vendors and spaza shops near schools.

“These food poisoning cases have disrupted teaching and learning as the majority of cases have affected students during school hours,” Mhlanga said.

“As a result, school time has been diverted to assisting affected students with medical attention.

“In addition, the psychosocial impact of such events continues to have negative effects on both students and teachers.”

Mhlanga said none of the incidents were linked to the National School Nutrition Programme.

“The National School Nutrition Program is an important government program aligned with the 2030 National Development Plan to address hunger, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.

“The program provides nutritious meals to 9.7 million students during the school day. However, DBE has a responsibility to intensify efforts to improve food safety and hygiene practices and raise awareness.

“It must be clearly stated that many incidents are related to food products purchased through unofficial sellers.

“The entire community in which the school is located must take responsibility for the welfare of children, especially if consumed products are sold outside the school premises.”