The Consumer Organization of Kenya (COK) has raised an urgent alarm regarding the sale of unlabeled poultry products by retailers in the country. The organization is calling on the government to take swift and decisive action after discovering that poultry products, particularly those imported from neighboring countries, are being sold without the necessary labeling. This alarming discovery comes after a recent spot check by COK, which found that several poultry products were missing labels and were not in compliance with the standards set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
Proper labeling and adherence to health standards are crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers. Labels provide vital information such as the product’s origin, expiry dates, and health and safety standards, all of which help consumers make informed decisions about the products they purchase and consume. In the case of poultry products, this information is even more critical, especially given the growing concerns about foodborne illnesses.
According to COK, the absence of this information on poultry products creates significant risks to consumers. The organization has emphasized that consumers are entitled to know where their food comes from, whether it has been properly handled and processed, and whether it meets the required safety standards. Without this vital information, consumers are left vulnerable to health risks, including foodborne diseases such as salmonella and campylobacter, which are often associated with improperly handled or contaminated poultry.
The Consumer Organization’s statement underscores the potential dangers posed by the lack of proper labeling, particularly in light of the recent surge in foodborne illnesses in the country. Health authorities have repeatedly warned about the growing number of foodborne disease cases, many of which are linked to the consumption of contaminated or improperly processed food. The organization’s call for immediate action is aimed at preventing further health risks that could arise from the sale of these unlabeled products.
COK has specifically called on the Health Cabinet Secretary, Deborah Barasa, and the Department of Veterinary Services to intervene and take action against the retailers found to be engaging in the sale of unlabeled poultry products. The organization has stressed that retailers should be held accountable for failing to comply with the regulations and urged that strict penalties be imposed on those found guilty of violating the law. In addition, COK has called for stronger enforcement of existing food safety regulations, as well as better monitoring of the poultry supply chain, from importation to retail.
In response to the rising concerns, experts have also weighed in on the importance of proper food labeling. Dr. Peter Njoroge, a public health expert, stated, “Consumers have the right to know what they are eating. Proper labeling is not just a legal requirement, it is a public health issue. We need to ensure that products entering the market meet the necessary health and safety standards and that consumers are informed of any potential risks.” He further highlighted that while foodborne illnesses are preventable, the lack of proper labeling makes it difficult to trace the source of contamination when outbreaks occur.
The issue of unlabeled poultry products is particularly concerning given Kenya’s efforts to improve food safety and hygiene standards. The government, through the Kenya Bureau of Standards and other regulatory agencies, has made strides in strengthening food safety regulations in recent years. However, cases like these highlight the ongoing challenges in enforcing these regulations at the ground level.
As the call for action grows louder, it remains to be seen how swiftly the government will respond to this growing concern. The Consumer Organization of Kenya’s appeal to Health CS Deborah Barasa and the Department of Veterinary Services is a timely reminder of the need for stronger regulatory oversight in the food industry. The health and safety of consumers must remain a top priority, and it is crucial that both retailers and the relevant authorities work together to ensure that food products, particularly poultry, meet the required standards for public consumption.
In conclusion, the issue of unlabeled poultry products underscores the broader challenge of food safety in Kenya. It is clear that more stringent enforcement of labeling regulations is needed to protect consumers from potential health risks. The government must act swiftly to address this issue, ensuring that all food products in the market comply with the necessary safety standards and that consumers are fully informed about the products they consume.
