The Public Servants Association (PSA) has expressed concern over a recent incident of food poisoning affecting 28 pupils at Mzamomtsha Primary School in Driftsands and Sikelela Primary School in Landsdowne in the Western Cape.

The PSA said this incident indicated an urgent call for action to improve food safety measures in communities.

The PSA emphasized that the health and welfare of children should be the highest priority, stressing that such incidents underscore the need for stricter regulatory measures to protect public health.

Cases of food poisoning are becoming more widespread in South Africa and the PSA has warned that this trend could evolve into a national crisis with potentially devastating consequences.

“PSA is deeply concerned that these incidents are becoming a catastrophic phenomenon in South Africa. It is imperative that stricter food safety regulations are implemented immediately to prevent further damage to public health,” it said in a statement.

ADVOCATE FOR INCREASED FOOD ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTIONS

PSA is calling on the South African government to step up inspections of all food establishments, including those owned by foreign nationals. The association stressed that regular and thorough inspections are needed to ensure that all businesses comply with South African food safety standards, which are essential to protecting the public from health risks associated with improperly prepared or contaminated food.

“Regular and rigorous inspections are essential. This is necessary to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and to protect the public from health hazards,” the PSA said.

ENHANCE COLLABORATION AND EDUCATION

The PSA also called for closer collaboration between relevant government departments, local health authorities and community leaders to identify high-risk food establishments. The association encouraged these stakeholders to work together to provide food safety training where needed and enforce strict food safety standards.

The PSA further emphasized the importance of educating food business owners and staff on proper food handling, storage and hygiene practices to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“Protecting the health of citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as students, requires a collective effort and a strong commitment to food safety,” the PSA concluded.