SOUTH AFRICA – Namib Mills, the largest grain processing company in Namibia, has been temporarily withdrawn Top Score Instant Porridge brand from South African shelves following the deaths of three children in the Eastern Cape.
Investigation into the matter has been launched with preliminary findings show that the children experienced stomach cramps after eating the vanilla-flavoured instant maize porridge and were later taken to a local clinic, where they were pronounced dead.
The two toddlers and a baby from Mdantsane died after reportedly consuming the porridge bought from a SPAR outlet.
In a statement the company said “Namib Mills is deeply saddened by reports circulating in the media and on social platforms that claim three children in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, tragically passed away after consuming home-cooked porridge. There are allegations that one of our products, Top Score Instant Porridge, may be implicated.”
“As a precautionary measure, we have made the decision to temporarily withdraw all Top Score Instant Porridge products from the market while an investigation is underway. This is a proactive measure, reflecting our commitment to consumer safety.”
Namib Mill added that it is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities and has also initiated its own internal investigation to ensure complete transparency.
However, Marné Bouwer, senior brand manager, stressed there is currently no evidence connecting their product to the tragic incidents, but they are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
According to the Namib Mills website, the instant porridge is made with 99% natural ingredients and is enriched with various vitamins.
Just recently, SASKO, PepsiCo’s iconic baking brand in South Africa, shut down bread production at its facility to pave way for a comprehensive food safety investigation after a woman discovered rodent remains baked into her loaf of bread.
South Africa is facing several complex food safety challenges affecting both the food industry and public health
Parents and caregivers have been advised to stay vigilant due to a notable increase in food poisoning cases across the country.
