The has issued a health alert after discovering that approximately 2 million kilograms of rice from Pakistan, declared unsafe due to high aflatoxin levels, have entered the Kenyan market. Despite failing safety tests, this rice, which was imported in September and October, has found its way into retail outlets across Nairobi and Mombasa.

KEBS has managed to seize only 23 tonnes of the contaminated rice, while the remainder continues to be sold to unsuspecting consumers. The rice, sold under the “Biryani” brand, contains aflatoxin levels that are double the safe limit. Aflatoxin, a harmful toxin, can cause severe health issues such as liver damage and heartburn.

Documents from KEBS show that over 83,000 bags of rice were imported by Gama Food Traders Ltd, with some bags shipped through the Port of Mombasa to Nairobi, where they were repackaged and distributed. However, the rice was released from the port without the necessary safety certificates, and only a small portion has been recovered.

The contaminated rice was found to contain 11.54 parts of aflatoxin per kilogram, well above the allowable limit of 5.0 parts per kilogram. Despite efforts to recall the rice from the market, only a small amount has been recovered, leaving millions of kilograms in circulation.

With the festive season approaching, more Kenyans may unknowingly consume this dangerous rice, putting their health at risk. KEBS has urged the public to be cautious and report any suspicious rice products to authorities.