School meals are 'safe'

POISONING: COOKS UNDERGO REGULAR TRAINING, SAYS OFFICIAL

- Masoka Dube

As 25 more pupils were taken to health facilities for suspected food poisoning in Zithobeni, east of Pretoria, this week, the basic education department has denied that its feeding scheme could be the cause.

Within two months, about 200 pupils received medical attention countrywide after displaying symptoms of food poisoning.

The Gauteng department of education, sport, arts, culture and recreation said 25 pupils were from Mshuluzane Mayisela Primary School in Zithobeni.

They were rushed to different facilities after they allegedly consumed snacks purchased from vendors outside the school. Department of basic education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the food pupils consumed at schools was safe and the cooks received regular training to ensure they prepare healthy food.

"The food handlers undergo training on an on-going basis to ensure that the quality of food is maintained.