Woolworths has launched an investigation into a counterfeit operation involving canned pilchards found in Woolworths-branded cartons.
The discovery was made during a joint operation by crime intelligence and the SA Police Service in Daleside, Vereeniging. Seven undocumented migrants were arrested, and printing equipment used to alter expiry dates was seized.
The pilchards products involved were allegedly part of an imported shipment rejected by Woolworths due to failing quality control standards.
The company emphasised that customer safety was its priority and reminded consumers to purchase Woolworths-labelled products only from authorised stores or online channels.
“We take food safety and quality control extremely seriously,” the company said in a statement issued at the weekend. “We have launched our own investigation to determine why our quality control processes were not adhered to in this instance.”
Concern over repackaging
This incident highlights the growing concern of expired foods being repackaged and sold as fresh, posing significant health risks.
Recent reports in Gauteng have detailed several incidents of food-borne illnesses and deaths suspected to be linked to expired or counterfeit foods sold in local stores and spaza shops.
In a related development, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Friday evening and expressed condolences to the families of children who have died from food poisoning. Since September there have been several reported incidents of food-borne illnesses across all provinces, resulting in the death of 22 children.
Consuming expired foods, especially canned products, can lead to severe health issues. The incidents highlight the importance of stringent quality control measures and supply chain monitoring to prevent similar incidents and protect consumer health.
Ramaphosa called for unity in fighting food poisoning deaths and announced measures to combat the issue, including the closure of implicated spaza shops, mandatory registration of spaza shops and food handling facilities within 21 days, and improved waste management to reduce rat infestation and associated health risks.
The president emphasised the need for stricter regulations and community involvement to ensure food safety.
SA has strong regulations to help authorities monitor and enforce food safety standards, conduct inspections and prosecute offenders.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.