Nakuru County To Implement Stricter Fresh Produce Safety Standards
By MTK Correspondents
Nakuru County is set to introduce new regulations requiring retailers of fresh produce to ensure it meets pesticide residue standards and is free from other harmful contaminants.
Agriculture Chief Officer Mr. Newton Mwaura announced that all vegetables and beans will now be subjected to the same quality checks as those destined for export markets before they hit the shelves.
“We are working on standards to ensure that we enforce mandatory quality checks to ensure that all fresh produce comply with the minimum required pesticide residues,” said Mr. Mwaura.
The county has already received a pesticide residue analyser, donated by Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT), which can detect organophosphates, carbamates, and heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and lead in fresh produce.
The equipment, set to be installed at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC), will also be used at the county’s Public Health Food Laboratory to address food safety concerns.
Mwaura stressed the importance of tackling pesticide overuse, noting that excessive spraying—driven by consumer demand for perfect-looking produce—has become a significant concern.
He pointed out that unsafe food contributes to disease and malnutrition, which can strain healthcare systems and affect national economies.
“Unsafe food creates a vicious cycle of disease and malnutrition,” Mwaura said, highlighting the need for a coordinated national response to food safety challenges.
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- Owning a car in Kenya just got harder — and more expensive
- Karua leads tribute to Gen Z victims, demands justice
- Kenyans mark Gen Z anniversary amid protests and roadblocks
- Gachagua hails youth for staying home
- Dutch dominance: Netherlands top Group F after 3-1 victory over Tunisia
About the Author
