Gauteng Residents Urged To Buy Goods From Reputable Stores

The Gauteng Health Department says it is concerned about the rising incidents of suspected food poisoning cases, particularly among children.

It says its working closely with stakeholders to create awareness among residents of townships and informal settlements as well as tenants of hostels.

In the latest incident a ten-year-old girl died after eating tainted snacks from a spaza shop in Alexandra in northern Johannesburg.

The departments spokesperson Motalatale Modiba says, Its important to purchase food from reputable sellers with valid permits to operate. Check expiration dates and avoid consuming expired products. Ensure that food packaging is intact and has not been tampered with.

For shops to adhere to the conditions of their permits which include compliance with environmental health regulations and maintaining hygiene standards. We also appeal to the public not to take the law into their own hands but to rather notify the relevant authorities where they pick up non-compliance issues, Modiba adds.