PUBLIC HEALTH WARNING

Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when purchasing perishable food products in areas affected by prolonged power outages.

The Municipality has received reports that certain spaza shops and informal vendors may be selling discounted food products that could have spoiled or defrosted due to the ongoing electricity interruptions.

Products of concern may include:

• Meat and chicken products

• Dairy products

• Frozen foods

• Processed meats

• Cooked or ready-to-eat meals

Consuming spoiled food can lead to serious foodborne illnesses and health risks.

Residents are advised to:

Avoid buying perishable foods that are being sold at unusually low prices

Avoid frozen products that appear soft, partially thawed or refrozen

Do not consume food with unusual smell, colour or texture

Always check expiry dates and packaging condition

Purchase food only from reputable and compliant outlets

Remember:

If in doubt, throw it out.

Suspected unsafe food sales can be reported to the Municipality’s Environmental Health Services for investigation:

• CAPE AGULHAS: (028) 425 1157

• OVERSTRAND: (028) 313 1243

• THEEWATERSKLOOF: (028) 212 1121

• SWELLENDAM: (028) 514 1182