By Henry Okello
TORORO
Tororo municipality authorities have impounded unhealthy foods from several restaurants in Tororo town after they were found in breach of the Public Health Act, amended 2022.
The operation, led by the municipal health team in collaboration with law enforcers on Thursday, 18th December, 2025, targeted eateries including Jaja’s Inn Restaurant, Happy Hours Restaurant, and several food joints within Osuna Market.
Foods such as matooke, posho, and kalo were confiscated after inspectors discovered they were being covered with kavera (polythene bags), a practice long condemned as a major health hazard.
Municipal Health Educator, Aisha Nakato expressed disappointment that despite repeated sensitization meetings, some food handlers continue to ignore warnings.
“Kavera contains toxic chemicals, and when heated, they release dangerous components like dioxins and phthalates that can cause cancer, hormonal imbalances, infertility, and other chronic illnesses,” Nakato explained.
She cautioned against common practices such as wrapping food in kavera before steaming, covering hot food with polythene to retain heat, or cooking directly on kavera.
Instead, Nakato encouraged the use of safer alternatives like banana leaves, aluminum foil, glass, stainless steel containers, or food-grade plastic wraps.
Deputy Town Clerk, Okoth Kitong confirmed that the affected restaurants will be presented before the courts of law to serve as a deterrent to others.
“This is all in the spirit of protecting lives within the municipality,” Kitong emphasized.
The crackdown underscores Tororo municipality’s renewed commitment to enforcing health standards and protecting residents from harmful food practices.
