“Woolworths priority in food sourcing is to establish long term relationships with local, South African suppliers wherever possible. Where this is not possible, Woolworths will import food products but less than 10% of Woolworths food product is imported and only a small percentage of that is imported from China – only 5 product items are sourced directly from China. As with all product sold, Woolworths is committed to maintaining the highest possible levels of product safety throughout the business. Woolworths considers food safety critical and routine checks are conducted through our SANAS (South African National Accreditation System) accredited food laboratory. In addition, all Woolworths suppliers, both local and international, are bound by the Supplier Code of Business Principles which requires conformance to the highest legal and ethical standards and environmental practices. Woolworths also follows stringent labelling protocols, ensuring that customers can identify the origin of the product and are able to make informed buying decisions using the extensive product information provided, which includes nutritional values, allergens and sugar content, as well as the usual total energy, total protein, total carbohydrate and a full breakdown of fatty acids and sodium (salt). Woolworths monitors local and international trends and issues extremely closely and, as soon as any potential risk is identified, Woolworths immediately assesses this risk and puts in place relevant testing, product and supplier assessments and, in extreme cases, initiates immediate product recall procedures.” Notes to editors: Woolworths currently sources only 5 product items (SKU’s) from China, none of which are fresh produce: 1. Oriental Mix 2. Raw Walnuts 3. Jumbo Peanuts 4. Honey Roasted Peanuts 5. Raw Pinenut Kernels Woolworths is continually monitoring these products, in line with our stringent food safety regime. Ends