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NCC cracks down on non-compliant spaza shops after tragic deaths in Soweto

In the wake of a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of six schoolchildren in Naledi, Soweto, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) has launched a nationwide crackdown on non-compliant spaza shops.

The children reportedly consumed contaminated snacks from a local spaza shop, leading to their untimely deaths.

According to NCC spokesperson Phetho Ntaba, inspections have revealed shocking findings of non-compliance with the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and other laws, regulations, and by-laws.

Issues uncovered include the sale of expired goods such as baby food, sweets, cool drinks, noodles, snacks, biscuits, juices, and other consumables, unclear labeling with foreign language labels, missing ingredient information, and unfair refund policies with a lack of trade descriptions on meat products.

The NCC is working closely with regulatory authorities in Soweto, including the Department of Home Affairs, Health and Environmental Inspectors, South African Police Services (SAPS), and the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs to address the issue and ensure compliance with the CPA.

Similar collaborations are taking place in the Eastern Cape to crack down on non-compliant spaza shops.

Ntaba warns that suppliers found in contravention of the CPA could face prosecution and hefty fines.

The NCC is determined to hold suppliers accountable for endangering consumers’ health and ensure the safety of consumers in spaza shops nationwide.

“The blitz on non-compliant spaza shops is a necessary measure to prevent further incidents of poisoning from tainted food and to protect consumers,” added Ntaba.

As investigations continue and measures are put in place to enforce compliance with regulations, the NCC urges consumers to be vigilant and report any suspicious or non-compliant practices at spaza shops.

The tragic deaths in Soweto serve as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring food safety and holding suppliers accountable for their actions .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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