Pietermaritzburg — The KwaZulu-Natal Health Department has called for a temporary halt to feeding schemes at some primary schools in the province.

Close to 400 learners of Hlathingo Primary School were hospitalised at the weekend, complaining of a stomach ache, hours after eating food at the school.

The provincial health department's spokesperson Leon Mbangwa said food samples were taken to laboratories in Pretoria.

"In the meantime we have spoken to the Education Department to halt the supply of food to the learners while the investigation is being carried out," said Mr Mbangwa.

The incident also prompted parents in Nquthu near Vryheid to call for the suspension of the programme, fearing that their children could be in danger.

Several schools in Greytown and surrounding areas also reported similar incidents.

Spokesperson for the provincial education department, Christi Naude, confirmed that the department was investigating the matter with the relevant suppliers.

"If it is found that the suppliers provided unhealthy food then the department will take steps to see to it that this does not happen again," said Ms Naude.

She also confirmed that the department was working closely with officials from the provincial health department in this regard.

The national department of education has been operating the Primary School Nutrition Programme (PSNP) since 2004, following Cabinet's decision to transfer this from the national health department.

The programme aims to enhance pupils' learning ability and facilitate the establishment and support of sustainable food production activities in schools.