This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
On July 16, 2019, the government reacted to public outrage by banning the use of Sodium Metabisulfite in meat and its products, a preservative that prolongs shelf life.
Ministry of Health officials conducted raids on various supermarkets, collecting meat samples for further testing at the national public health laboratories.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Health, officials collected random samples from different outlets for analysis and directed county health departments to conduct heightened surveillance in all supermarkets, butcheries, meat processors, and other food business operators.
CS Kariuki promised to share the results of the tests once they are out.
Several retailers, including Carrefour and Naivas, distanced themselves from the claims, with Carrefour assuring customers that they do not use or tolerate chemicals or preservatives to extend the shelf life of meat or any other food items in their stores.
Naivas Chief Commercial Officer Willy Kimani also defended his employer, stating that the retailer's handling of meat products does not require the use of chemicals.
