South African poultry producers were generous donors to the annual challenge to cook up 67 000 litres of soup for distribution to poor people on Mandela Day.
Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July is marked by a number of activities around the country centred on 67 – the number of years the late president spent in public service. Companies, communities and individuals are encouraged to spend 67 minutes on that day making life better for others.
Several years ago Chefs with Compassion – a collaboration of chefs and other parties that rescue surplus food to feed hungry people – aimed to have participants produce 67 000 litres of soup to help feed poor people on Mandela Day. That target was achieved and exceeded, and the total has increased every year.
This year, reports the Poultry Bulletin, official journal of the SA Poultry Association, the chefs produced a record 106 895 litres of soup to combat hunger.
The poultry industry donated tons of chicken and more than a thousand eggs to help make this happen. Country Bird Holdings, Rainbow and Astral Foods each donated chicken worth R67 000, and TopLay donated 67 dozen eggs in Cape Town and the same again in Johannesburg.
The result was that feeding schemes and other welfare organisations were able to provide a wholesome cup of soup to around 427 580 people from vulnerable and marginalised communities across South Africa on Mandela’s birthday.
“We cannot thank the poultry industry enough for the bounty these four companies shared with our chefs,” says Chefs with Compassion CEO Coo Pillay. “Having meat and eggs available to add to the food we serve on Mandela Day and beyond is a luxury, adding nutritious protein to the meals that feed thousands of people who rarely get meat or eggs in their diet.”
The Poultry Bulletin described the contribution as a proud day for the poultry industry – showing up with compassion and generosity to cut through the cold of winter with a warm meal.
“That’s what our industry is all about,” it said.
