adminBlessings Chidakwa in Kadoma
USE of expanded polystyrene material, commonly known as Kaylite, is on the rise here, especially in backyard eating places, barely months after it was banned by Government.
Government last year banned the use of kaylites and related plastic packaging citing health hazards and pollution.
The ban mostly affected the food industry, especially vendors and fast-food outlets as kaylite manufacturers provided a cheaper form of packaging which, however, created environmental challenges.
A snap survey carried out by The Herald in the city over the past few weeks, revealed that a sizeable number of backyard food outlets were now exclusively using the banned material.
The owners said they were being forced to revert to using kaylites because they were cheap.
“Kaylites are very affordable for us, considering that a plate of sadza costs a dollar. lf l go for the proper packages l may fail to realise profits at the end of the day,” said a lady who only identified herself as Mai George.
Others said they tried to factor in the extra cost for packaging but that pushed away customers who started looking elsewhere for food.
“At some point l tried to increase our food prices from $1 per plate to at least $1,20 but it didn’t work as customers resisted, which resulted in business dropping considerably,” said an operator who preferred anonymity.
“Government should come up with cheaper and affordable alternatives for these kaylites or else we will continue to play hide and seek with the authorities.”
Contacted for a comment yesterday, Environment and Management Authority Mashonaland West provincial spokesperson Mr Munyaradzi Nhariswa said he would first get information from their officials in Kadoma.
“Let me check with our Kadoma office,” he said.
Studies have shown that increased styrene exposure leads to chromosomal damage, abnormal pulmonary function and cancer.
Exposure to chemicals emitted by heated kaylite causes headaches, weakness, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal and minor kidney effects.
Online Reporter