There have been calls for urgent action following a spate of suspected food poisoning cases in the country, with concerns raised about the quality of products sold by spaza shops and street vendors.

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

Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the department was concerned about the increasing number of food poisoning cases involving school-aged children.

In all cases, students ate products purchased from spaza vendors and stores near the schools.

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

“As a result, school time was directed towards assisting affected students with medical assistance.

“Furthermore, the psycho-social impact of such incidents continues to have negative effects on both students and teachers.”

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

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

“The program provides nutritious meals to 9.7 million students on school days. That being said, DBE has a responsibility to step up its efforts to improve food safety and hygiene practices and raise awareness.

“It must be clear that many incidents experienced relate to food products bought through informal vendors.

“The whole community in which the school is located should take responsibility for the welfare of its children, especially if the items consumed are sold outside the school premises.”

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