Toxic Rice as Poisonous Products Sold in Kenyan Markets
Kenyans have once again been exposed to unsafe food commodities, as the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) revealed that a staggering 2 million kilograms of contaminated rice infiltrated local markets.
Documents from KEBS indicated that the rice, imported from Pakistan in September and October, was initially flagged as unfit for human consumption after failing aflatoxin tests.
The flagged consignment—comprising 83,000 bags of 25kg each—was traced from Kilindini Port in Mombasa to Nairobi. It was repackaged and distributed to various wholesale and retail outlets. KEBS officials later discovered the breach and launched a crackdown, seizing only 23,000 kilograms of the harmful rice at Nairobi’s Central Business Park in the industrial area.
Health Risks and Repeat Offenses
KEBS reported that the rice exceeded acceptable aflatoxin levels, posing significant health risks. Aflatoxin, a known carcinogen, is commonly associated with long-term health issues, including liver damage.
This is not an isolated case. In a strikingly similar incident three months ago, 32 million liters of cooking oil were flagged after being released into the market illegally. During a parliamentary hearing on September 23, KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari admitted that 43 out of 73 containers of the cooking oil failed nutritional compliance tests. However, the Kenya National Trade Corporation (KNTC) allegedly facilitated their distribution.
Ngari stated, “We tested several consignments, and the results showed failure. As far as KEBS is concerned, their products were rejected and should not have been sold.”
Public Safety in Question
These revelations underscore systemic lapses in Kenya’s regulatory framework, leaving citizens vulnerable to consuming substandard and hazardous goods.
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Toxic Rice as Poisonous Products Sold in Kenyan Markets
