Millers reject blame for aflatoxins in mealie meal brands, say Agric minister hasty in his remarks

The Millers Association of Zambia has pushed back against government accusations that millers were responsible for the presence of aflatoxins in some mealie meal brands, arguing that investigations were still ongoing and that it was unfair to assign blame prematurely.

Andrew Chintala, President of the Millers Association of Zambia, stated that it was unjust for the government to blame millers when investigation into the source of the aflatoxins had not yet concluded.

His remarks come in response to recent statements by Agriculture Minister. Reuben Mtolo Phiri, who suggested that aflatoxins found in certain mealie meal brands were due to millers purchasing maize with inadequate moisture content from local farmers.

Chintala highlighted that attributing the issue to millers at this stage was inaccurate and ignored the complexity of the situation.

Read more: Govt names eight mealie meal brands contaminated with Aflatoxins (See list)

“What people should know is that millers have not imported any maize from neighboring countries since the crop marketing season began, although it is known that some grain traders have imported maize,” Chintala said, emphasizing that the investigation should remain open until all factors are thoroughly examined.

He further explained that the presence of aflatoxins in mealie meal could be attributed to various factors beyond the control of millers, such as poor storage conditions or improper handling of grain.

“Until the technical experts have concluded their investigations, it is not proper to make a conclusion because the mealie meal production process involves a number of players,” he stated.

Chintala underscored the importance of waiting for the results of the ongoing investigations before drawing conclusions, noting that blaming millers alone does not address the broader issues within the grain supply chain.

He stressed that a comprehensive approach was needed to ensure food safety and protect consumer health, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in identifying and resolving the root causes of the aflatoxin contamination.