The Gauteng Department of Education has lifted the ban on food sales at schools, which was implemented earlier this month following a series of food poisoning incidents affecting school children in the province. While food sales have resumed, strict compliance requirements have been set for vendors, tuck shops, and traders to ensure the health and safety of students.
Steve Mabona, the department’s spokesperson, emphasized that all food vendors must meet new regulatory standards to avoid contamination, spoilage, and the risk of foodborne illness. The Department of Basic Education has issued a Circular on Incidents of Food Poisoning to guide schools, vendors, and communities on safe food practices.
All food vendors must comply with relevant legal requirements, by-laws, and food safety regulations. Unregistered sellers are required to register with the relevant authorities within 21 days, effective from November 15, 2024. Vendors must obtain and display a valid Certificate of Acceptability (CoA) to operate on school premises. Schools and districts must submit daily reports on food-related incidents using a standardised template. They are also tasked with raising awareness about food safety and sharing tips to prevent food-borne illnesses. Schools must adhere to the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) Guidelines when managing food distribution.
Image Source
In the event of suspected food poisoning, schools are instructed to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure quick and effective action. The new regulations aim to ensure that food sold in schools is safe, properly handled, and stored, helping to restore confidence in the food supply within Gauteng schools.
