Flies in meals and expired yoghurt spark food safety concerns at UCT

Students at the University of Cape Town (UCT) are expressing their outrage after disturbing images emerged online, revealing unsanitary conditions in residence dining halls. 

Photos shared by students this week depict a dead fly floating in a portion of stew and a tub of yoghurt that has passed its sell-by date of May 30.

The shocking images have led to widespread discontent among students, who claim that the quality and hygiene of meals served in the residences have significantly declined.

UCT spokesperson Elijah Moholola said the university had noted the catering concerns “with deep concern” and that the relevant departments were “attending to the issues as a matter of urgency".

“UCT remains committed to maintaining high standards of food safety,” Moholola said.

He said the university outlined several existing measures meant to ensure food quality and safety, including clear reporting structures.

"This also includes standard investigation processes, strict menu specifications, brand requirements for suppliers, ongoing staff training, and independent food safety audits," he said.

Earlier this year, Moholola said, an independent food safety audit found that all UCT residences scored above 80% for hygiene and food handling. Scores ranged from 96.16% at Leo Marquard residence to 80.68% at Medical Residence.

Moholola said additional steps were introduced in recent months to improve oversight and accountability such as increased pest control measures, improved waste management and more effective pesticides in dining areas.

He said food service controllers and supervisors were now on duty daily to handle complaints and students can report issues through an online feature on the Pay & Connect app or via a dedicated email address.

Moholola said the university has committed to resolving escalated matters within seven days.

“UCT remains committed to addressing any catering-related concerns promptly to ensure that catering in UCT residences meets the highest standards,” he said.

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