The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has refuted claims made by opposition leaders alleging that contaminated sugar is being distributed to consumers across the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, KEBS assured Kenyans that no sugar consignment unfit for human consumption has been cleared for release into the market. The agency emphasized that all sugar whether imported or locally produced undergoes stringent inspection, testing, and certification before it is allowed for public sale.
“Our attention is drawn to statements circulating in the public domain alleging that contaminated sugar is circulating in the Kenyan Market,” KEBS said. “KEBS would like to dispel these allegations and affirm that both locally produced and imported sugar undergo mandatory and rigorous inspection, testing, and certification before release to the market.”
The statement came in response to claims led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who alleged that a 25,000 metric tonne consignment of sugar recently docked at the Port of Mombasa and reportedly declared unfit for human consumption was being transported to a factory in Western Kenya for repackaging and sale to unsuspecting consumers.
“We are aware of a cargo of 25,000MT of sugar that recently landed in our Port of Mombasa. These 25,000MT of sugar are already on their way to a Western Kenya sugar factory to be repackaged and sold to unsuspecting Kenyans,” Kalonzo said during a press briefing.
KEBS urged the public to ignore unverified and alarmist reports, particularly those circulating on social media and informal channels. It reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and maintaining transparency in its quality assurance processes.
To enhance public safety, KEBS encouraged consumers to report any suspected cases of substandard products through its Wajibika na KEBS program. Citizens can verify the authenticity of products bearing the S-Mark or ISM mark by sending the product code via SMS to 20023. Additionally, the public can report concerns by calling the toll-free number 1545, available Monday to Friday during official working hours.
KEBS remains vigilant and committed to upholding the highest standards in ensuring food safety across the country.
