Seven years after South Africa’s deadliest listeriosis outbreak, food giant Tiger Brands has offered a new legal settlement following over 200 deaths and 1,000 infections linked to its Polokwane facility. The proposal, which still requires court approval, marks a shift in the company’s stance after years of litigation.
The 2017-2018 outbreak, the largest globally in recorded history, disproportionately affected vulnerable communities, with 140 pregnant women losing their babies. Richard Spoor Inc Attorneys Director Nilesthra Padayachee, representing victims in a class-action lawsuit, called the settlement a “first step toward justice” but emphasized that many victims remain unidentified.
Compensation is expected to cover past and future medical expenses, including long-term care for children born with brain injuries, as well as lost earnings. However, the settlement’s total value remains undisclosed pending further negotiations.
The case gained traction after conclusive genetic evidence from South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) tied the outbreak to Tiger Brands’ facility. Despite delays, Padayachee expressed cautious optimism, urging full accountability for all affected families.
The high court must still approve the terms, with advocates pushing for broader inclusion of victims. For now, the settlement signals a pivotal moment in corporate accountability for public health crises in South Africa.
