Conditional compensation offered to victims in Tiger Brands listeriosis case
According to Polokwane Review, the offer, confirmed by Tiger Brands on April 25, applies to certain victims of the deadly 2017–2018 listeriosis outbreak, specifically those affected by the ST6 strain of listeria monocytogenes, which was ultimately traced back to the Enterprise Foods factory in Polokwane.
According to the statement issued today, the insurer, with Tiger Brands' support, has authorised attorneys to offer compensation to three specific categories of victims:
Individuals who contracted listeriosis (or whose mothers did) due to the ST6 strain.
Those who lost a legal breadwinner to ST6 listeriosis.
Legal guardians of dependants who contracted ST6 listeriosis.
The offer includes payment for proven or agreed compensatory damages under Section 61 of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008. However, it is made without any admission of liability and is subject to certain conditions being met.
Tiger Brands has reiterated that it has adequate product liability insurance in place to cover such claims and maintains that this move is part of a broader strategy to resolve the class action.
The company also noted that no personal or financial details of the offer will be made public to protect claimants' privacy.
'Today's announcement represents an important milestone and follows shortly on measures already taken in February to offer interim relief in the form of advance payments to identified claimants with urgent medical needs. It also demonstrates our commitment to continue to work closely with our insurers and their appointed attorneys to explore a resolution of the entire class action,' said Tiger Brands Tjaart Kruger.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs will now begin the process of presenting the settlement offer to qualifying claimants. Those who accept will have their damages assessed individually, with the process expected to take several weeks.
The class action is still in stage one, and a court will determine whether Tiger Brands can be held liable or not during this time. Only after this stage will the court assess causation and potential damages on a broader scale.
The listeriosis outbreak, declared the world's largest ever, claimed over 200 lives and left lasting trauma for many South African families.
The fallout was also significant for Polokwane's economy, as the Enterprise factory, once a major local employer, was forced to shut down during the investigation.
Department of Health responds
Meanwhile, the Department of Health welcomed the decision to finally settle, adding that it is an important milestone in bringing the lengthy legal matter to an end.
Health spokesperson Foster Mohale said the National Institute For Communicable Diseases is providing the required medical records to enable decision-making in the process during the investigation of the listeriosis outbreak.
'The department is also appealing to those with enough evidence suggesting a causal link between the outbreak of listeriosis and the loss of their loved ones, to come forward so that their clinical records can be accessed for assessment to establish if indeed they have valid claims eligible for settlement, and also to find lasting closure after grief,' his statement read.
Mohale said the outbreak highlighted the importance of consistent and strict adherence to food safety practices in the processing and handling of ready-to-eat foods, especially for mass supply.
'Food safety and hygiene practices remain crucial for public health, preventing food-borne illnesses, reducing food waste and avoiding costly food recalls,' he said.
As legal proceedings continue, Tiger Brands said it remains committed to working with its insurers to find a resolution and ensure timely relief for affected individuals.
Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.
Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
an hour ago
- IOL News
Empowering learners: how a wheelchair donation is changing lives at Meerhof School
The Meerhof pupils enjoying their donations from the Medipost company Image: Supplied The Meerhof School in Hartbeespoort, North West for learners with physical and learning disabilities recently received a generous donation of essential wheelchairs to empower these remarkable students. The impact of the donation cannot be overstated. "These wheelchairs have made a huge difference in our lives," shared Tshiamo, a pupil benefiting from the mobility aids. "They make it easier for us to get around and have given us a sense of independence we did not have before." The enthusiasm in their voices is palpable, with Tshiamo adding, "We are more comfortable, more confident, and hopeful about our futures." The boys at Meerhof enjoying their new wheels Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading An additional commendation of the generous initiative highlights the long-lasting impact intended for future students: "We know that more children will get to use them once we outgrow them, or leave the school. We are very thankful to Medipost; your kindness and support mean so much to us." Dr Victor Ramathesele, Group Chief Executive Officer of Medipost Holdings said the lack of assistive devices like these wheelchairs severely restricts the social and economic inclusion of individuals with disabilities. "The unavailability of assistive devices is one of the most significant barriers to full social and economic participation, limiting education and employment prospects," he said. "As a future-oriented South African healthcare group, we prioritise sustainable SED initiatives that make a meaningful impact within our communities." At Meerhof School, a place nestled within the walls of a former World War II hospital, the commitment to fostering independence shines through. Principal Kobus van der Merwe expressed his admiration for the learners. "This school is so vibrant, and the learners are extremely capable and positive young individuals. We encourage them to develop their abilities and do their personal best, rather than compete against others." This ethos is reflected in their motto: "From dependence to independence." Pupils at Meerhof school for physical disabled students recently received a generous donation of wheelchairs from Medipost Holdings Image: Supplied Despite working on a limited budget, Meerhof has maintained impressively high educational standards, with a 100% matric pass rate for the past 17 years. Currently home to 240 pupils from grade R to grade 12, the school offers both conventional CAPS curriculum and a Differentiated CAPS curriculum for those who need additional support. Furthermore, the school's boarding facilities cater specifically for children with mobility needs, ensuring they can fully engage with their education without barriers to access. Medipost's donation is part of a broader commitment to socioeconomic development, having also provided bicycles to rural students for easier access to education, funded life-saving heart surgeries for children, and supported various NGOs. This consistent effort is indicative of Dr Ramathesele's vision. Grateful Meerhof school pupil can't stop talking about her new wheelchair donated by Medipost Holdings Image: Supplied "We trust that the donation of these mobility aids will support learners on their educational journey towards a brighter future. Equipped with a strong foundation, Meerhof learners have a chance to excel and challenge perceptions." Reverend W. Venter, Chairperson of the Meerhof School Governing Body, echoed the sentiment of gratitude. "The school is grateful for private institutions like Medipost that enable us to fill all the gaps over and above the departmental budget's reach." "On behalf of the staff, parents, and learners of Meerhof School, we are sincerely grateful to Medipost Holdings for the donation of these quality wheelchairs from Wheels on the Run. Alongside our fundraising initiatives, donations such as these are invaluable in helping learners grow into well-rounded individuals with the confidence to hold their place in this world," Van der Merwe summed up the feelings of all at the school.
The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
Automotive giant returns to South Africa after six-year break
After a six-year absence, a major automotive player is back in South Africa's passenger vehicle market, this time with a sharper focus on affordability and SUVs. The relaunch comes at a time when Chinese brands are expanding rapidly, reshaping the country's automotive landscape. Reuters reported that at a recent Johannesburg unveiling, four new models were introduced, with all scheduled to hit showrooms in September. The automaker behind the comeback is India's Tata Motors, which previously exited the segment in 2019 after mixed consumer reactions to its earlier models. While its passenger cars vanished, its commercial vehicles remained a fixture on South African roads. Now, with a refreshed lineup, the company is aiming to reset perceptions and win back trust. Tata unveiled four new models, set to be introduced in September, including the Punch compact SUV, the Curvv coupe-inspired SUV, the Tiago hatchback, and its flagship Harrier premium SUV. Tata Motors' new strategy leans heavily on competitive pricing and the growing appetite for compact SUVs. But success won't come easily; established Chinese rivals such as Chery, GWM, and Beijing Automotive have already made significant inroads with budget-friendly, tech-forward models. The return is being rolled out in phases. A second wave of launches will later include the Nexon and Sierra SUVs. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
3 hours ago
- The Citizen
What you should know about Online Sports Betting sites
What you should know about Online Sports Betting sites With the massive rise of Online Sports betting Companies in South Africa, it's important for you to make an informed decision to avoid any potential scammers. Luckily has done the research for you and promotes only recommended and licensed brands where your money will be safe and your winnings will be paid, no question's asked! Betting Codes is a site that is built by South Africans, for South Africans. The review process that Betting Codes undergoes is. Is the brand licensed by a reputable regulator in South Africa? Will your winnings be paid on time with no question's asked? Is the software safe and secure? Is your information kept safe and secure according to the POPIA act? Pros and cons for each brand are provided by Betting Codes for your peace of mind and for you to make an informed decision Betting Codes ( serves as a premier guide for South African Sports Bettors, offering transparent and in-depth reviews of Online Sportsbooks. The platform is tailored to local needs, delivering objective insights on licensing, security, payment methods, promotions, and user experience—all grounded in thorough research and hands-on testing. Important to take note that Betting Codes only promotes licensed brands* in South Africa so that users do not fall into the trap of offshore illegal brands. Key Features & Offerings Comprehensive Reviews Betting Codes reviews Sports Betting platforms. Each review assesses aspects such as local availability, user support, game or event selection, and bonus structures. Sourcing & Trust Their review methodology includes actual account creation, deposits, gameplay and interaction with customer support. This ensures recommendations are based on real user experience, not just marketing. Final Thoughts on Betting Codes Betting Codes ( stands out as a credible, South African-focused authority for Sports Betting. With objective reviews, practical guidance, and real-world testing, it empowers bettors to make informed and confident choices. Before you decide to open an account at a South African Sportsbook, be sure to visit *South African law permits only persons over 18 to partake in Sports Betting. Note that only features Sports Betting companies that have a valid South African Sports Betting license. While sports betting and gambling are not the same thing, anyone who feels that they need help with a Sports Betting addiction, may contact the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation for help. Toll-free counselling line 0800 008 or WhatsApp Help to 076 675 0710.
