As the 2026 academic year officially kicked off today, parents are urged to practice safe hygiene when preparing school lunches.

The City says as summer is in full swing, foodborne illnesses are on the rise. The City further stressed that warmer temperatures cause food to spoil more quickly and allow germs to spread faster, raising the likelihood of illness among children.

The City’s Food Microbiological Laboratory carries out nearly 1 600 food analyses each month to monitor food quality across Cape Town.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, stressed that parents and caregivers play a crucial role in keeping food safe.

“Simple steps make a big difference, such as keeping food cold when transporting groceries or packing school lunches. Good handwashing is also one of the most effective ways to stop germs from spreading. Teaching children to wash their hands properly before eating, and packing hand sanitiser where possible, can greatly reduce risks.”

The City’s Food Control Unit has shared practical tips for packed school lunches, including keeping lunchboxes clean, using ice packs to keep perishable foods cold, choosing low-spoilage foods, and discarding any uneaten perishable items after lunch.

Parents are also advised to store lunchboxes in cool, shaded areas and ensure that perishable foods are eaten within four hours of preparation.