Food Safety Crisis: Thaba Nchu Boy Dies After Consuming Spaza Shop Snacks
By Thabo Mosia
A seven-year-old boy from Thaba Nchu in the Free State has died after he and his three friends allegedly consumed snacks bought from a local spaza shop.
The four children were admitted to Albert Moroka Hospital on Christmas Day for treatment and were later released. However, the young boy passed away at home after complaining of a stomach ache. The other three have since been cleared of the suspected food poisoning.
This tragic incident adds to a growing list of similar cases across South Africa. In recent months, more than 20 children have died from suspected foodborne illnesses, raising serious concerns about food safety standards, particularly in informal retail sectors.
Recent Incidents Across the Country
In October 2024, a 13-year-old boy from Khubvi, Thulamela in Limpopo, died after consuming snacks from a local spaza shop. He and three other boys had eaten crisps offered by a shopkeeper. While the other boys were hospitalized and later stabilized, the 13-year-old succumbed to complications.
Similarly, in November 2024, over 40 pupils from Daluvuyo Primary School in the Free State were hospitalized with symptoms of food poisoning after allegedly consuming snacks from a nearby shop. Three of these children exhibited severe symptoms, including itchy skin and rashes.
In Soweto, Gauteng, multiple cases have been reported. A five-year-old boy from Diepkloof died after eating snacks purchased from a local spaza shop, with three other children hospitalized. This incident followed the deaths of five children in Naledi, Soweto, under similar circumstances.
Government Response
In response to the escalating crisis, the South African government has classified foodborne illnesses as a national disaster. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced immediate measures, including the closure of spaza shops linked to child deaths and a nationwide inspection of informal food vendors. The government has also mandated that all spaza shops register with local municipalities to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
The Free State Department of Health has suspended food sales by vendors at schools following these incidents. Spokesperson Mondli Mvambi stated, “We are implementing immediate measures to safeguard the health and well-being of our learners.”
Community Impact and Concerns
The spate of food poisoning cases has led to heightened tensions in affected communities. In some areas, residents have resorted to looting spaza shops suspected of selling contaminated food. Community leaders and parents are calling for stricter enforcement of food safety standards and greater accountability from shop owners.
A food safety specialist from the University of the Free State suggested that some of the food sold in spaza shops might be deliberately contaminated, exacerbating public fear and mistrust.
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