The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has responded to media reports about the safety of the imported edible oil valued at Ksh17 billion.
In a statement on Wednesday, December 6, KEBS assured that it had subjected the edible oil to safety measures as it is customary for imported goods.
The body affirmed that it had tested the safety of the edible oil and found that it was compliant with all the health and safety parameters of the applicable Kenya Standard.
However, KEBS reported that the sampled edible oils did not meet the Vitamin A levels specified in the Kenyan Standard.
“This is not a health and safety parameter, KEBS communicated the results to KNTC,” the statement read in part.
As per the statement, the safety and standards body utilizes the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) to assess the quality of products imported into Kenya.
PVoC, according to the statement, is a conformity assessment program implemented at the exporting country to guarantee that imported products adhere to the applicable Kenyan Technical Regulations, Mandatory Standards, or approved specifications.
According to KEBC the assessment program ensures that imported products meet the required standards before entering the Kenyan market, safeguarding consumer safety and promoting fair trade practices.
“KEBS samples and re-inspects products accompanied by Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) at the Port of Entry as a routine,” the statement read.
The statement came days after media reports stating that the imported oil was unfit for human consumption.
Consequently, a section of Kenyans voiced their anger with some speculating that saga would see some government officials axed.
KEBS has also been in the spotlight over cases of suspected unfit products including the condemned sugar saga.
Also Read: Pamela Mutua: High-Flying CEO at Center of Ksh16.5B Edible Oil Saga
In the statement, however, the safety body assured that it had been keen on ensuring safety of products coming into the Kenyan market. “
KEBS assures Kenyans of safety
“KEBS is dedicated to ensuring the highest level of safety and quality of products and will continue to raise awareness about the risks associated with sub-standard goods,’ the statement read.
Also Read: Govt Declares Ksh 16.5B Imported Edible Oil Unsafe for Consumption
In addition, the body encouraged the General Public to be vigilant and make reports upon encountering any products suspected to be substandard.
Earlier on December 2, the Kenya National Trading Corporation which was behind the importation also refuted the reports terming them as false.
“We therefore wish to clarify to members of the public that our cooking oil stocks are available and safe for consumption,” KNTC stated.
