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KEBs has suspended the permit issued to Jetlak Foods Limited after Nuteez peanut butter was found to be unfit for human consumption.
The permits of Triclover (Clovers peanut butter) and Mother nature’s product (Mother nature’s) have also been suspended for exceeding the amount of aflatoxin.
Nuteez was declared unfit in a certificate of analysis done by the Government Chemist. The chemist noted that it exceeded the maximum required limit of aflatoxin.
More on this: Nuteez peanut butter unfit for human consumption
“KEBs has suspended the permit that allows it to use the standardisation mark for its Nuteez brand and the firm directed to recall all the products in the market,” acting MD Nguyo Bernard said.
In a statement on Monday, Bernard said they also seized all the peanut butter at the factory after an inspection of the factory. The Kenya Standard, Peanut Butter – Specification states that the maximum total aflatoxin content is 15 parts per billion (ppb).
“Tests undertaken on the samples have confirmed that the level of aflatoxin is 25 parts per billion (ppb), which is higher than the maximum limit allowed by the standard,” Bernard said
“Manufacturers whose product permits have been suspended are instructed to discontinue the manufacturing or offering for sale of all substandard peanut butter,” he said.
Bernard asked all the manufacturers to recall substandard products and institute corrective actions.
“KEBS will continue to undertake surveillance of the products at the factory and market to ensure that the public is protected from harmful products,” he added.
In the last seven months, KEBS has been undertaking market surveillance of peanut butter.
Fifty-four samples of peanut butter have been collected from various points of sale and manufacturers from 1st July, 2018, to date and tested.
Last week, the government ordered all Nuteez peanut butter off the market after samples tested positive for dangerous levels of aflatoxin.
Director of Public Health Dr Kepha Ombacho said the brand would only be restocked if it is cleared after more tests.
Aflatoxin is a chemical produced by naturally occurring fungus in soil, decaying vegetation and grains.When consumed, it can cause serious damage to the kidneys and liver, including causing cancer and death.
More on this: Nuteez peanut butter pulled off the shelves over aflatoxin
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