30 children dead: Gauteng's alarming rise in foodborne illnesses sparks call to action

The Gauteng health department says it is tightening the screws on food safety compliance after a spike in foodborne illnesses.

Addressing a webinar on food and chemical safety, acting COO Dr Mkhulu Selepe said more than 700 cases of foodborne illnesses were recorded in the province last year, claiming the lives of 30 children.

“This is a serious concern,” said Selepe. “It highlights the crucial role that each of us have to play to promote awareness and protect our families and communities.”

He described food safety as a “shared commitment” that “extends beyond government to each of us as individuals and community members”.

He stressed the importance of proper food handling, storage and hygiene. 

“We must work together to create a culture that protects our communities and, most importantly, our children,” he said.

The Gauteng department of health has intensified its crackdown on unsafe food practices. In 2024 it conducted more than 389,000 inspections of formal and informal food outlets, resulting in 9,536 prohibition notices and 4,911 fines for noncompliance.

“Compliance to food safety standards is mandatory for every person, business or establishment dealing with food,” said Selepe.

He warned about the dangers of improper chemical use, especially in households, noting that unlabelled or misused substances can contaminate food and cause poisoning.

Selepe called on communities to remain vigilant and educate themselves on basic food and chemical safety.

“Food safety is everyone's business, and we must work together to reduce the risks.”

In Gauteng teams comprising officials from the departments of health, economic development and agriculture, with municipalities, community leaders and NGOs, are working together to reduce the risk of foodborne incidents and fatalities, he said.

“Their efforts focus on promoting safe food-handling behaviour, maintaining clean environments and raising awareness about the long-term impacts of illegal dumping. We are also tackling compliance issues.”

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