Govt Warns Kenyans Over Substandard Maize Flour

The Kenya Bureau of Standards seized a brand of maize flour from the market stating that it had no certification marks - and therefore unsafe for consumption.

In a statement released to the public, KEBS stated that it had banned Riri maize flour in Makuyu, Gatundu, as the product had not been certified for consumption.

KEBS has been on the lookout for manufacturers who continue to produce and sell products that have not been certified.

Riri Maize flour seized by KEBS in Makuyu, Gatundu County

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In 2020, KEBS went after Budget Sifted maize meal from K Matt Supermarket in Nyeri County for allegedly producing and commercializing the product without a valid permit.

Many other manufacturers of products like sugar, especially supermarkets, have in the past been put on the spot on the same.

According to KEBS, by authenticating the standard marks, one is assured of the quality of a product, and that they have passed through the certification processes thus making it easy to identify fake products.

KEBS asked Kenyans to be vigilant and report any products sold that do not have certification marks.

The Standardization Mark (SM) permit, which is a mandatory requirement for the placement of goods in the Kenyan market, is issued to manufacturers for products whose compliance with established standards has been ascertained.

“Under the revised SM scheme, manufacturers will be issued with a permit that is valid for two years instead of one year as has been the case. Manufacturers will also be able to apply and make payment for the SM Permit online.

Additionally, the SM Permit will also be prepared and transmitted electronically. This will save time and cut costs associated with manual applications,” said Bernard Njiraini, Managing Director, KEBS.

In June 2020, KEBS revised the Standardization Mark in a scheme that sought to improve efficiency and enhance the ease of doing business in Kenya.

The bureau also hoped to address challenges such as delays in the processing of SM permits that have forced manufacturers into losing business opportunities and under-producing materials. 

Offices of the Kenya National Cereals and Produce Board.

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