Top Score Instant Maize Porridge, produced by Namib Mills, has been linked to the deaths of three children in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape on the 27th September 2024.
Namib Mills released a statement that the company is deeply saddened by the reports circulating in the media and on social platforms with allegations that one of their products may be implicated.
The company goes on to say that ‘the loss of life, especially of young children, is a tragedy, and our deepest condolences go out to the families and communities affected.’
Namib Mills has emphasized that currently there is no evidence directly linking their product to these deaths. However, they have stated that as a precautionary measure, they have made the decision to temporarily withdraw all Top Score Instant Porridge products from the market while an investigation is underway.
“This is a proactive measure, reflecting our commitment to consumer safety. We are cooperating fully with all relevant authorities and have also initiated our own internal investigation to ensure complete transparency.” says the company.
On 30 September 2024, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) received an urgent precautionary product safety recall notification of the Top Score Instant Porridge brand produced in Namibia and supplied to the Spar Group in South Africa. Namib Mills, based in Namibia, notified the NCC of an urgent precautionary recall of this product and the local supplier, Spar Group, has also communicated this information to the NCC. Read more from the NCC.
In a press release from Marné Bouwer, Senior Brand Manager at Namib Mills, she states “At Namib Mills, we take any food safety allegations extremely seriously. At Namib Mills, the health and well-being of our consumers is our top priority. We adhere to stringent food safety protocols and regulations. Our production facilities operate under the highest standards, and our products undergo rigorous testing, including industry standard quality assessments.”
The company has since taken the following actions:
- Temporarily withdrawn Top Score Instant Porridge from the markets in South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, and Lesotho while investigations are ongoing.
- Their CEO and senior management team travelled to Mdantsane to personally engage with the affected community and to oversee the progress of an independent investigation.
- The production batch in question has been identified and isolated. Samples have been sent to an independent, accredited third-party laboratory for comprehensive testing. Although results typically take up to two weeks, the company has requested an expedited process to ensure we can share findings with the public as soon as possible.
SPAR Eastern Cape took proactive steps by removing the product from its shelves. The grocery store not only ceased sales of Top Score Instant Porridge but also initiated communications with its customers, providing them with information on how to return the product for a full refund.
Namib Mills has advised that they will provide ongoing updates through their social media platforms and website to keep customers, stakeholders, and the broader public informed as they work to address this situation.
“Namib Mills remains steadfast in our commitment to the health and safety of the nation, and we will continue to prioritize these values above all else,” says Bouwer.

If you have any questions or would like more information,
please contact Namib Mills customer service team at +264 61 290 1000.