PDM to question urban minister on outlets selling expired food

Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) parliamentarian Reggie Diergaardt is set to question urban and rural development minister Erastus Uutoni on Thursday about shops and outlets selling expired food while displaying fitness certificates.

Diergaardt submitted a notice of question in parliament on Tuesday.

“There have been a number of public complaints about shops and food outlets that sell expired food while displaying valid fitness certificates. This is a dishonest practice that we must strongly condemn,” Diergaardt said.

He said that the consumption of expired food can pose serious health risks including food poisoning, allergic reactions and long term health complications.

Diergaardt asked Uutoni what challenges health inspectors at the City of Windhoek and all over Namibia experience in carrying out their mandate.

“Is there a shortage of health inspectors at each municipality and local authorities in Namibia? If yes, please identify the municipalities and town councils with the number of health inspectors that are in shortage,” he said.

He further asked the minister how often health inspectors visit food outlets and shops for regular inspection.

“Do multinational food stores receive regular food inspections? What public health campaigns are in place to create awareness about food safety?” he asked.

Uutoni is expected to provide a comprehensive response on Thursday in parliament.