…..CCZ responds to Mupambi complaints.
It never rains but pours for the now controversial food supplier, Innscor Africa Limited, whose products have been under scrutiny for the past year. Following a complaint by human rights defender Abigail Mupambi, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has confirmed the presence of glyphosate in several of Innscor’s mealie meal products.
Activist Rutendo Matinyarare initially brought to light the issue of glyphosate in food products, sparking widespread concern and prompting investigations into the safety of Innscor’s offerings. The recent findings raise additional alarm about the safety of these products, which have faced criticism not only for their glyphosate content but also for transparency in manufacturing practices.
The CCZ conducted independent tests on six mealie meal brands associated with Innscor, including Ngwerewere Super Refined Meal and Red Seal Super Roller Meal. While the tests revealed glyphosate levels significantly below internationally accepted safety limits, the presence of the herbicide in any quantity has led to public outcry and demands for greater accountability.
Mupambi has been vocal about the health risks posed by such chemicals, urging consumers to remain vigilant. “The safety of our food supply should never be compromised,” she stated. “We must hold suppliers accountable for the contents of their products.”
The Consumer Council’s findings come in the wake of a press conference held by the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ), where representatives claimed that glyphosate levels in their products were negligible and safe for consumption. However, skepticism remains, especially in light of the ongoing concerns raised by activists and the public.
In their communication to the rights activist ,Abigale Mupambi dated 16 October 2024, the CCZ emphasizes its commitment to consumer safety and transparency. The organization indicated that they are prepared to engage further and recommended that stakeholders could approach CODEX to debate ,argue or discuss acceptable levels of glyphosate in food products and to advocate for stricter regulations.
Contacted for comments , Mupambi said it was very pleasing to note that the CCZ is doing something about the issues raised but a lot more needed to be done .
“Yes the CCZ has responded confirming the SAZ findings and assuring us that more tests are underway. Food is life we can’t afford taking any chances. In line with the Consumer Protection Act 5/2019 Chapter 14:44 all stakeholders have a mandate to deliver the best and safest food products to the public and the Act guarantees consumer rights.We are writing the CCZ to propose a possible way forward and also bring the matter before Consumer Protection Commission as the regulator.”, she said.
