New Rules for Kenya: Why Most Packaged Foods Might Soon Need Health Warning Labels

By Jennifer Rigby

LONDON (Reuters) – A new report reveals that nearly all packaged food and drinks sold in Kenya would need a health warning label under fresh government guidelines. The report, from the non-profit Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNI), highlighted that about 90% of products from both local companies like Brookside Dairy and international giants such as Coca-Cola and Nestlé exceed recommended levels of salt, sugar, or saturated fat.

Kenya introduced its nutrient profile model this month, aiming to create clear front-of-package labels. The findings are striking. Approximately two-thirds of the products would be labeled as “unhealthy” based on global standards like Nutri-Score, which also considers beneficial nutrients.

While the Kenya report is the first of its kind for an African nation, ATNI’s work has shown that food products from large companies in poorer countries are generally less healthy than those available in wealthier nations. The need for this research is pressing, especially as dietary habits in Africa shift, leading to rising obesity and diet-related health issues.

Sales of processed food in Kenya have surged by 16% over the last five years. Alarmingly, obesity rates have tripled since 2000, with 45% of women and 19% of men classified as overweight or obese. This trend mirrors what we’ve seen in countries like the U.S., where obesity has reached critical levels.

Katherine Pittore, ATNI’s Head of Policy, emphasizes that “Kenya stands at a tipping point.” The country could either follow the path of high obesity rates or take proactive steps to avoid it. The introduction of the nutrient model and health warning labels marks a significant move for the Kenyan government—it could inspire similar initiatives across Africa.

However, the report also raises concerns about fortified products. Over two-thirds of snacks like sweet biscuits and yogurts, which are usually enriched with vitamins and minerals to support healthy diets, are classified as unhealthy. “These products might help with micronutrient deficiencies, but they could also contribute to non-communicable diseases,” notes Greg Garrett, ATNI’s Executive Director.

The report analyzed 746 packaged items from the 30 largest food and beverage companies in Kenya, representing about 57% of the local market. As consumer behavior shifts, it’s crucial for governments and businesses to adjust strategies to promote healthier options.

For more information on these findings, you can refer to the [Access to Nutrition Initiative report](https://www.accesstonutrition.org).

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