Fake Food What to do if you suspect counterfeit products

The South African Government has warned of fake (counterfeit) and expired or fake food being sold to the public since at least 2018, according to a release by Minister Aaron Motsoaledi.

ALSO READ: ‘Fake food’ in South Africa: myths, misinformation and not enough data

After reports of food-related illnesses and several deaths in the country, what people eat every day is coming into the spotlight. What are fake foods, and what should you do if you think you have seen counterfeit food for sale?

Here’s how to spot reputable retailers from supposed fake foods.

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WHAT ARE ‘FAKE’ FOOD?

The SA Government warns against social media panic, but has also warned against food that might be counterfeit or expired. But what exactly are fake food?

• Counterfeit foodstuff can be anything that has been repackaged and sold but claims to be from another brand name. For example, no-brand flour that claims to be Name Brand Four instead.
• Counterfeit foodstuff can also be food (or medicines) that have been manufactured illegally.

Illegally manufactured foods bypass real quality control and health standards. Authentic food factories have to stick to the health code, but illegal factories don’t – and this is one reason why ‘fake’ foods can be dangerous.

Research by the University of Cape Town says that some fake foods might be hazardous to health, while others don’t pose the same risk.

Foods that haven’t been subjected to health and safety standards could contain dangerous (and sometimes non-food) ingredients. Some videos on social media have fueled concerns.

ALSO READ: Cape Town restaurants alerted, as ‘fake inspectors’ score free food

Expired food, which is sold past its expiry date, may also pose health risks. For example, expired milk or old eggs could cause bacteria growth and serious illness.

FAKE FOOD AND THE LAW

The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectant Act stipulates some of the regulations for food manufacture and packaging in Southern Africa.

All factories where food is produced, packaged, or processed must adhere to standards set by th is law and the Department of Health. Safety inspectors are tasked with making sure these facilities are safe, and sometimes acting on reports from the public.

The Counterfeit Goods Act might also be contravened by some products, if they are manufactured or repackaged in an illegal factory.

WHAT TO DO

If you think that you’ve seen counterfeit products, here’s what to do:

1. DO NOT USE THE FAKE FOOD

If you think that a product might be expired or counterfeit, it’s best to avoid using it. ‘Counterfeit’ products haven’t been tested for safety or health, and might not contain the advertised ingredients that the real product should.

2. REPORT THE FAKE FOOD TO THE MAKER

Read the product label to see who makes (manufactures) this product.

Contact the manufacturer directly with your complaint if you think something is fake or expired.

It’s important to tell them when and where the product was purchased. Details like the expiry date and batch number (found on the packaging) is also important.

ALSO READ: Government blasts “fake news” photo of Spaza shop “expired food victim”

The manufacturer can verify these details, and advise further on what to do.

3. CONTACT THE NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

The National Department of Health can also be contacted, if you suspect that a factory or store doesn’t maintain the right health and quality standards.

Contact the National Health Helpline at +27 80 002 9999.

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The National Department’s helpline is also available at: healthhotline@health.gov.za