Dangerous Aflatoxin Levels Found in Popular Kenyan Flour Brand

The discovery of excessive levels of aflatoxin in a popular brand of maize flour has prompted the Ministry of Health to take immediate action.

The Ministry has cautioned the public against consuming the contaminated flour and directed county health officers to seize all existing stock from the Kenyan market. This decisive step comes after laboratory analysis on April 30 revealed an alarming concentration of 714 parts per billion (ppb) of aflatoxin in the flour, significantly exceeding the standard safety requirements. Aflatoxin, a naturally occurring toxin produced by certain moulds, is known for its harmful effects on human and animal health.

According to food scientist and food safety consultant Dr Mutegi, there are various types of aflatoxin each with varying potency levels. The most potent and potentially lethal form is aflatoxin B1 which can cause severe illness and even death. Dr Mutegi emphasizes that a concentration of 714 ppb is unsafe for consumption, even by animals, and that such high levels necessitate immediate action either through decontamination or disposal. The presence of aflatoxin in grains is a common concern, as various factors beyond the inherent properties of the grain itself can influence it. The physical characteristics of the kernel, particularly the thickness of the pericarp or outer shell, play a crucial role in protecting against fungal invasion and subsequent contamination.

Grains with a thicker pericarp tend to offer better resistance to aflatoxin contamination. In response to the alarming findings, the Ministry of Health has ordered Nairobi County officers to inspect the mill responsible for producing the contaminated flour and halt all milling and distribution operations. The Ministry has also called for prompt action and regular updates on the situation. While the specific lethal levels of aflatoxin have not been disclosed, Dr Mutegi's warning against using feed with a concentration of 714 ppb highlights the severity of the contamination. The Ministry's swift intervention aims to safeguard public health and ensure the availability of safe and uncontaminated food products for Kenyan consumers.