Clamp down on dodgy food factories

FIVE individuals, including three members of the same family, were arrested by the Hawks following an investigation into illegal activities on a farm in Charl Cilliers, outside Secunda.

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They have since appeared in court facing charges that include contravening the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act, corruption, fraud, and money laundering.

It's beyond words to imagine that the rotten food was intended for human consumption. The distribution of food unfit for human consumption is a serious offence, comparable to knowingly preparing poison.

This incident underscores a critical regulatory gap in the country: any Tom, Dick, or Harry can operate unregistered food production facilities.