MPs call for suitable water irrigation system after reports of contaminated food being sold informally

CAPE TOWN - Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for a "fit for purpose" water irrigation system following reports of contaminated food being sold informally.  

On Tuesday, Parliament's agriculture committee received a presentation from a food safety expert who noted how poor irrigation affects quality in the supply chain system.  

The committee was briefed on the matter following several deaths in 2024 as a result of eating contaminated food items bought from informal traders.  

Professor Lise Korsten, a food safety expert from the University of Pretoria, told the committee that poor irrigation in the informal sector was a leading factor in food contamination.  

“They also have a challenge around contaminated irrigation water. Then they have no regulated system, and this is something we should consider.”  

Committee member Andile Mngxitama agreed, saying even irrigation water supplied by water boards is affected.  

“On the issue that the professor has mentioned that the irrigation is not fit for purpose, I fully agree with the professor because, at some instances, I’ve interacted with a number of farmers.”  

Korsten said unregistered pesticides need closer regulation.  

The committee will further discuss food safety and pesticides at its next meeting with the minister.