This archive report was first published on 28 June 2021.
Kenyan Street Foods: A Delicacy of Flavors and Risks ¶
Kenya's streets are a melting pot of flavors, with street foods being a staple in many Kenyans' diets. From the spicy Mutura to the sweet Mahindi Choma, these delicacies are a delight to the taste buds. However, beneath the surface of these tasty treats lies a darker reality - the risk of contamination and poor packaging.
Speaking to professional nutritionist Florence Amakobe, who is based in Emali, she explained that street foods are common in Kenya because they are readily available and sell fairly. However, they pose dangers such as contamination both from the seller and microbes from the environment, how they are packed is also an issue because of the danger posed by plastics and nylon used which may have active carcinogens. She also pointed out that contamination of these foods could cause Gastrointestinal infections and stomach upsets.
Some of the most popular street foods in Kenya include:
- Mutura, a Kenyan type of sausage made by filling goat intestines with a combination of mincemeat, goat blood, and seasonings such as ginger, garlic, coriander, and chilies.
- Mahindi Choma, a traditional meal prepared by grilling green corn on fairly hot charcoal till the corn starts to dry on the grill.
- Mshikaki, skewered pieces of marinated meat such as beef, goat, or mutton that is slowly cooked over hot charcoal.
- Fried Cassava, a meal made by chopping the cassava into small chunks, boiling them in water until they soften, and then add salt.
- Smokie Pasua, a smokie that has been sliced in half and has been filled with Kachumbari.
- Roast Meat, commonly goat, beef, or chicken, and is commonly served with ugali and kachumbari on a cutting board.
- Fruit salads, a mix of fresh fruit, common bananas, watermelons, passion fruits, and pineapples all in one plastic container.
- Chicken Necks and Gizzards, parts of chicken such as necks and gizzards that are mostly sold to vendors by firms and butchers that slaughter chicken on a large scale.
While these street foods may be a delight to the taste buds, it is essential to be aware of the risks associated with them. As Florence Amakobe pointed out, contamination of these foods could cause Gastrointestinal infections and stomach upsets. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary precautions when consuming street foods, such as ensuring that they are cooked properly and handled hygienically.
