Government has named 8 brands of mealie-meal found with elevated levels of aflatoxin including Pembe Milling, Africa Milling, Shabco milling, Continental milling, Girad Milling, Busu Milling and Star Milling as well as Farm Feed – Super Dog meal.
The presence of aflatoxins in the mealie-meal and Maize brands is reported to have already caused deaths dogs with potential harms to humans.
Speaking during a press briefing today, Ministry of Information and Media, Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, said all batches associated to positive tests have been withdrawn and quarantined.
“The presence of aflatoxin levels in products intended for human consumption is of great concern,” said Mr. Kawana.
Mr. Kawana said the robust surveillance system under the Ministry of Health detected the alarming number of dogs that died due to suspected feed contamination of which post-mortem examinations confirmed aflatoxin toxicity.
He said the currently ongoing investigation is essential as many milling companies produce products for both human and animal consumption.
“All these contaminated batches will be publicly destroyed,” said Mr. Kawana.
Mr. Kawana also said the sampling efforts have been extended to other parts of the country to ensure comprehensive monitoring and control and to prevent further contamination of the food supply chain.
He further said there is ongoing education and awareness creation especially among farmers and millers on proper storage and processing to prevent aflatoxin contamination
Mr. Kawana said government will continue to monitor the situation closely and enforce regulatory measures to protect the health and safety of citizens and animals.
By Margaret Mwanza
