Kenya Bureau of Standards Assures Public of Safe Sugar
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has strongly refuted claims circulating on social media and other platforms alleging the presence of contaminated sugar in the Kenyan market. In an official statement dated July 31, 2025, KEBS reassured consumers that no unsafe sugar consignments have been approved for distribution.
This comes amid growing public concern over food safety, with rumors suggesting that substandard or hazardous sugar products were being sold. However, KEBS has dismissed these claims, emphasizing its strict inspection and certification processes for both locally produced and imported sugar.
KEBS’ Firm Stance on Sugar Safety
In its statement, KEBS clarified:
“No consignment of sugar unfit for human consumption has been cleared for release into the Kenyan market.”
The bureau further explained that all sugar products undergo mandatory and rigorous testing before being allowed into retail outlets. This includes:
- Laboratory testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, aflatoxins, and other harmful substances.
- Verification of compliance with Kenyan standards (KS EAS 2:2017 for sugar).
- Inspection of packaging and labeling to ensure traceability and authenticity.
KEBS urged the public to ignore unverified reports and instead rely on official communication from the agency.
Why the Public Should Trust KEBS’ Assurance
Kenya has faced past scandals involving contaminated sugar, including the infamous 2018 sugar import scandal, where some batches were found to contain mercury and other dangerous chemicals. However, KEBS insists that its current surveillance systems are more robust, with real-time monitoring and stricter enforcement of standards.
To further strengthen consumer confidence, KEBS has implemented:
- Digital Verification Tools – Consumers can check product authenticity via SMS by sending the S-Mark or ISM Mark code to 20023.
- Toll-Free Reporting – The public can report suspicious products via 1545 during working hours.
- Public Awareness Campaigns – Through the “Wajibika Na KEBS” initiative, Kenyans are encouraged to report substandard goods.
How to Identify Genuine Sugar Products
With counterfeit and substandard goods still a challenge in Kenya, KEBS advises consumers to:
✔ Look for the KEBS S-Mark or ISM Mark – This indicates compliance with Kenyan standards.
✔ Verify the mark via SMS – Send SM#Code or ISM#UCR NO to 20023 for instant validation.
✔ Check packaging integrity – Poorly sealed or repackaged sugar should raise red flags.
✔ Report suspicious products immediately – Use the KEBS toll-free line (1545) or email info@kebs.org.
Past Sugar Scandals & Lessons Learned
Kenya has had its share of sugar-related controversies, including:
- 2018 Contaminated Sugar Imports – Some batches contained mercury, copper, and lead, posing serious health risks.
- 2021 Fake Sugar Seizures – KEBS intercepted counterfeit sugar repackaged in unhygienic conditions.
- Ongoing Smuggling Issues – Illegal sugar imports from neighboring countries often bypass KEBS inspections.
However, KEBS maintains that its current systems prevent such breaches, thanks to enhanced surveillance at ports, markets, and manufacturing plants.
Public Reactions & Expert Opinions
While KEBS’ statement seeks to calm fears, some consumer rights groups remain skeptical.
Jane Wambui, a food safety activist, told The Standard:
“We appreciate KEBS’ efforts, but past failures make it hard to trust blindly. Independent audits and more transparency would help.”
On the other hand, Dr. Samuel Kariuki, a food scientist, supports KEBS’ position:
“Modern testing methods are highly accurate. If KEBS says the sugar is safe, consumers should feel assured.”
What Should Consumers Do Next?
- Stay Informed – Follow official KEBS announcements rather than social media rumors.
- Verify Products – Use the S-Mark SMS service before purchasing.
- Report Concerns – If in doubt, call 1545 or visit www.kebs.org.
Conclusion: KEBS Reaffirms Commitment to Consumer Safety
The Kenya Bureau of Standards has made it clear: Kenyan sugar is safe. While vigilance is necessary, the agency insists that its testing and certification processes are foolproof.
For now, consumers can continue purchasing sugar with confidence—but should always verify product authenticity and report any irregularities.
Stay alert, stay safe, and #WajibikaNaKEBS!
For more updates, contact KEBS:
📞 Toll-Free: 1545 | 🌐 www.kebs.org | 📧 info@kebs.org
