The Ministry of Health has expressed concern that the sale of Ready to Use Therapeutic Food (Chiponde) is leading to a shortage of this essential treatment for malnutrition.

Samson Mndolo, Secretary for Health, reported that some vendors are illegally selling the commodity, which is marked ‘Not For Sale’.

“The practice poses a health risk to the general population since they are being consumed without prescription by a competent health worker,” Mndolo stated.

The Ministry has urged the public to report any individuals engaged in selling this product to the police.