Since September, food poisonings have killed almost two dozen children and sickened about 900 others, according to the South African government.
The crisis's toll was increased when six young children, all under the age of eight, passed away soon after sharing snacks from a corner store.
In a televised speech, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared the situation a national disaster and said that a pesticide used to fight rat infestations in abandoned townships is thought to be the cause.
Bereaved families and locals have also accused the company of using expired and fake food items.
The outbreak's extensive effects and documented fatalities have forced South Africa's leaders to address the shortcomings of government agencies in charge of waste management, food safety.
In a news conference with multiple cabinet ministers from various sectors, the government declared an emergency.
Officials are inspecting stores and visiting grieving families in townships, where residents have expressed anger toward shop owners, many of whom are immigrant
s.
