Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Health has intensified its call for heightened caution among members of the public as the festive season approaches, warning that this period often sees an increase in unsafe, expired, and counterfeit food products entering the market.
According to Zinhle Mamba, Senior Health Inspector at the Municipal Council of Mbabane, food safety compliance remains a significant concern, particularly within restaurants.
She said many establishments continue to fall short of basic hygiene and food handling standards, putting consumers at risk of foodborne illnesses.
Mamba explained that one of the most common problems inspectors encounter is poor food rotation. She said restaurants frequently fail to follow the ‘first-in, first-out’ principle, resulting in food expiring while still on shelves or being served to customers.
She added that staff changes often worsen the situation, especially when outgoing employees do not communicate expiry dates, storage information, or stock status to incoming teams.
“Restaurants are the most non-compliant. They must rotate food properly and ensure there is clear communication when staff change shifts or leave work so important dates are not lost,” Mamba said. She noted that failure to document or relay this information creates gaps that compromise food quality and public health.
A van full of expired foods from stores in Mbabane
The Senior Environmental Officer from the Ministry of Health Norman Maseko echoed the same concerns, stressing that the festive period presents even greater risks. With increased shopping, higher food demand, and informal vendors flooding marketplaces, expired and counterfeit products become more common.
Maseko warned that some suppliers deliberately repackage expired goods or sell damaged items at reduced prices, taking advantage of consumers who are rushed or inattentive.
The Ministry urged the public to carefully inspect food labels before purchasing, paying attention to expiry dates, unusual packaging, discolouration, and off-odours. Consumers were also advised to buy from reputable suppliers and avoid items sold at suspiciously low prices.
Health inspectors emphasised that food hygiene extends beyond expiry checks. Maseko reminded consumers to ensure that raw and cooked foods are stored separately, perishable items are refrigerated at safe temperatures, and kitchen surfaces are kept clean at all times.
He further warned that cross-contamination remains one of the leading causes of foodborne illness in Eswatini, particularly during family gatherings and large events common in December.
The Ministry encouraged the public to look out for food-grade certificates displayed in restaurants and food outlets. Premises in Eswatini are graded A, B, C, or D based on compliance with hygiene and safety regulations, and the grade must be visible to customers.
Family Store was also inspected
Additionally, Maseko advised families to exercise caution when purchasing large quantities of meat, poultry, and seafood, as improper storage can lead to rapid spoilage. They urged households to ensure fridges and freezers are functioning efficiently and to cook food thoroughly before serving.
The Ministry said inspectors will continue conducting unannounced visits to food premises throughout the festive period, focusing on high-traffic areas and establishments with a history of non-compliance.
Penalties will be issued to operators who neglect food safety regulations. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious products, unhygienic food outlets, or expired goods to their nearest health office.
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