South African researchers have recommended the creation of a single food safety authority to tackle food fraud and boost consumer health protection.
They said a centralized national food control authority if equipped with enough resources, would streamline enforcement efforts and enhance investigative capabilities.
In a review, the team looked at factors contributing to food fraud, including inadequate penalties, a lack of government commitment, complex labeling regulation, non-compliant street vendors, e-commerce and online food sales, and a shortage of inspectors and food testing laboratories.
The current system involves multiple government agencies with overlapping responsibilities, such as the Departments of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), Health (DoH), and Trade and Industry. Food control authorities are fragmented and lack a centralized governing body, and some regulations are more than 40 years old.
Researchers said a food control authority could inspect, sample, and certify food producers, suppliers, and retailers and provide food certification for import and export control. Such an agency could help prevent and detect food fraud. For example, it could develop and implement standards for food traceability and authenticity and conduct audits to ensure compliance with these standards.
Scientists said there had been contrasting reactions between the large Listeria outbreak and recent food fraud scandals, which includes the deaths of children allegedly caused by counterfeit foods.
The largest listeriosis outbreak occurred in South Africa between January 2017 and July 2018. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) confirmed 1,060 cases and 216 deaths. It was traced to polony made by Enterprise Foods, which was owned by Tiger Brands.
Consequences of fraud
In the fraud incidents, the authorities have not issued recalls or food alerts, and there is no evidence to suggest efforts have been made to bolster regulations or enforcement, despite a plan to appoint tuck shop (also known as convenience store) patrollers. According to the study, such an inconsistent response raises concerns about prioritizing food safety measures.
South Africa is also experiencing food adulteration issues, such as mislabeled fish, counterfeit olive oil, unauthorized additives in beverages, and high levels of pesticides in fruit.
Punishment for food fraud offenders is still uncertain despite the deadly consequences, as seen by the deaths of children in Gauteng in 2002, Soweto and the West Rand in 2023, and Vredefort in 2023, all linked to the consumption of unsafe and adulterated food. The reliance on laboratory evidence for legal action also poses a significant hurdle.
Researchers say inadequate authorities’ action against food fraud undermines food safety enforcement. It may legitimize the actions of unauthorized civil groups, undermine environmental health practitioners’ authority, and create fear and uncertainty among consumers.
The review also mentions the risk of fraud in the informal sector and via online food stores.
Researchers said future research should evaluate the impact of food fraud in the South African context, including its prevalence, public health impact, and economic consequences.
