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Two Food Lovers Market outlets in Diepkloof and Jabulani, Soweto were closed last week after they were deemed to be in unsatisfactory condition by the City's Environmental Health Department inspectors.
The environmental health inspectors made their visitors and determined that both should be closed until the met the necessary standards, including deep cleaning processes and fumigation.
According to the City’s Environmental Health Inspectors, the outlet in Jabulani has been monitored since it opened in 2013. Investigations and monitoring mainly focused on rodent infestations. Health inspectors in the region said they noted that the store did not comply with a number of food safety regulations and that remedial actions were recommended.
Before the video footage showing a rodent inside a fridge where food was kept went viral, notices to comply with waste management, pest control and hygiene requirements were issued to the outlet.
MMC for Health and Social Development, Cllr Mpho Phalatse had instructed environmental health inspectors in the region of Soweto to diligently investigate the outlets and submit a detailed report to her office.
Phalatse said her department will not shy away from shutting down outlets if they place the lives of residents at risk. She said food safety would not be compromised and all outlets regardless of their size should comply.
Environmental Health is obligated to enforce applicable legislation and to ensure that premises are complaint with provisions of such laws. Failure to remove or abate conditions that are unsightly, offensive, hazardous or detrimental to the health and well-being of people may result in litigation actions.
