Ministry of Health Director General Ag (DG) Patrick Amoth has ordered all county public health officers to seize and destroy Sherehe GSM maize meal flour in the market.
In a circular dated May 6, 2024, the ministry of health noted that a laboratory analysis of the product revealed that the maize flour, with no batch number was toxic.
The notice further explained that lab results indicated that the flour contains high levels of aflatoxin above the standard requirements of 10.0ppb. The level recorded through a laboratory analysis was 714ppb.
Subsequently, Amoth ordered for the surveillance of all food products on the market to safeguard the health of members of the public.
“Laboratory analysis on 30th April 2024 of Sherehe GSM maize meal flour with no batch number have shown that the flour contains high levels of aflatoxin above the standard requirements of 10.0ppb. The level recorded is 714ppb.
“In order to safeguard the health of the consumers, you are required to seize all existing stock in the market of the said brand for disposal. You are advised to scale up surveillance of all food products on the market,” the statement read in part.
Additionally, the ministry of health ordered Nairobi County government to carry out inspection on the mill and immediately stop the milling of the flour and its distribution in the market.
“While pursuing this matter, observance of the legal provisions as stipulated in the Food Drugs and Chemical Substances Act Cap 254 and the Public Health Act Cap 242 LOK is necessary. Expedite action and furnish the Division of Food Safety through email addresses,” added the statement.
Also Read: Report Reveals Unga That Raila Launched was Unsafe for Human Consumption
Earlier Warning of Contaminated Maize Flour
Earlier on May 8, the Ministry of Health issued a warning to Kenyans against consuming contaminated maize flour and cereals especially during the heavy rainfall and floods.
According to the Ministry, there was growing concern over the consumption of maize and cereals with aflatoxin due to improper harvesting.
Also, the increased aflatoxin content in cereals was caused by included improper drying methods, and inadequate storage significantly because of the heavy rainfall posing serious health risks to consumers.
“A particular concern amidst the current flood crisis is the contamination of maize flour, cereals, and pulses with aflatoxin, exacerbated by heavy rains.
“Factors such as improper harvesting, drying methods, and inadequate storage significantly contribute to aflatoxin contamination, posing serious health risks to consumers,” said Mary Muriuki Muthoni, Principal Secretary (PS) for Public Health and Professional Standards.
Also Read: Kenyans Warned Over Contaminated Maize Flour and Cereals
Unga Launched by Raila Flagged
Earlier in October 2023, a report by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) flagged a flour brand launched by Azimio leader Raila Odinga, indicating that samples collected of the flour did not comply with the requirements of the bureau after retesting.
According to KEBS, the samples collected were recorded to have high aflatoxin content of 19.46 while the required maximum content in 10.
Subsequently, the bureau ordered the miller to immediately recall the affected batch from the market.
How to Protect Yourself from Toxic Unga
According to the ministry, to protect consumers from consuming toxic products, businesses and food operators should establish and regularly update food safety management plans.
Also, Kenyans were advised to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent food safety incidents as well as cook food thoroughly and store dry foods away from moisture. Also, refrain from consuming maize that has changed color to keep the diseases away
On the other hand, consumers were advised to use clean water for drinking and food preparation as well as monitor refrigerated or frozen foods during power outages.
“Thoroughly clean and sanitize all surfaces and utensils exposed to floodwaters. Practice proper handwashing before handling food,” indicated MOH.
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