Johannesburg – The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has finished its investigation into the Top Score Vanilla Instant Porridge produced by Namib Mills, which was linked to the tragic incident in Buffalo City where three children reportedly lost their lives after consuming the product.
Following the investigation, the NCC revealed the following findings:
- Laboratory examinations indicated there were no signs of contamination in the tested batches;
- As a consequence of this finding, Namib Mills did not breach the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), particularly section 55, regarding the provision of safe and quality goods.
On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, the NCC announced the conclusion of the investigation, indicating that the recall of Top Score Vanilla Instant Porridge has been lifted in accordance with the relevant provisions of the CPA.
In making this announcement, Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu noted: “This investigation was quite complex due to the reported fatalities in Buffalo City that were allegedly connected to the product.
“It was crucial for the NCC to conduct a thorough investigation and work alongside all relevant regulatory authorities.
“The final evaluation of the laboratory tests on the batches showed no concerning contaminants, which led to the decision to end the product recall, allowing it to be reintroduced to the market.”
Earlier this year, on September 30, 2024, the NCC had informed the public about a precautionary recall of the Top Score Vanilla Instant Porridge from Namib Mills.
The NCC appropriately alerted the public regarding the recall in line with the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA).
Moreover, the NCC initiated an investigation to ascertain whether Namib Mills, a Namibian company, had violated the CPA in the manufacturing and distribution of the Top Score Vanilla Instant Porridge, which comes in 1 kg packaging.
The product was involved in the incident within the Buffalo City municipality, where the children tragically passed away after allegedly consuming it.
The investigation also encompassed Spar Group, the retailer selling the product in Buffalo City.
“This investigation was launched to ensure that any risks tied to the potentially unsafe product under recall were thoroughly addressed,” stated the NCC.
“The NCC has now concluded this investigation.”
