Farmer Arrested for Repackaging Expired and Rotten Food

A 30-year-old farmer has been arrested by the Hawks for allegedly repackaging expired and rotten food and selling it for human consumption.

## **Expired Food Meant for Animals Misused**

According to information from the Hawks, the suspect collected expired food from chain stores and other distributors under the pretense of using it to feed his domestic animals. However, instead of disposing of or using the food as intended, he allegedly repackaged it for resale.

## **Shocking Discovery on the Farm**

During a joint operation by the Hawks and Govan Mbeki Local Municipality Health Inspectors, authorities raided the suspect’s farm and uncovered two warehouses packed with food unfit for human consumption. The team found four cold rooms filled with expired canned goods, as well as rotten red meat and chicken.

In addition, approximately 1,000 crates filled with expired dairy products, including cheese, were discovered. The scale of the operation suggested an organized and deliberate attempt to resell expired food.

## **Vehicles and Equipment Used in the Scheme**

Authorities also found a truck equipped with a cold room, two light delivery vehicles—one loaded with meat—and an empty LDV. An investigation will be conducted to determine the extent of their involvement in the illegal activities.

Inside the warehouses, seven freezers were found stocked with repackaged wheat, flour, and maize meal. Investigators also seized various equipment used for repackaging, including vacuum sealers, scales, and plastic sealing machines.

Stickers and pricing machines, believed to be used for rebranding and misrepresenting expiration dates, were also recovered. These tools likely played a key role in disguising the true condition of the food before it was sold to unsuspecting consumers.

## **Legal Proceedings Underway**

The suspect is set to appear before the Secunda Magistrate’s Court this morning. Authorities will continue their investigation to determine the full extent of the operation and whether additional individuals or businesses were involved.

This case has raised serious concerns about food safety and the potential risks posed to public health. Officials are urging consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food products that may have been tampered with.