NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 16 – Kenyan millers are calling for stronger consumer awareness of fortified foods, warning that uptake remains slow despite improvements in quality and safety standards.
Millers for Nutrition Program Director Riz Yusufali said firms are fortifying and testing for aflatoxins, but compliance costs push up prices slightly, leaving consumers to decide whether fortified products are worth paying for.
“When our products go on the shelf, they may be slightly more expensive than those not fortified or not tested. Our challenge is how to create value for these products, and we need consumers to think about what they’re picking up,” Yusufali said.
Bidco Africa Director Sanchita Singh said edible oil fortification with vitamins A and D faces a communication gap, as fortified oils are often dismissed as unhealthy despite offering key nutrients.
The concerns were raised at the second annual Kenya Millers Fortification Index (KMFI) awards, where industry players highlighted both progress and challenges.
Unga Group Managing Director James Nyutu said companies are now moving beyond compliance, while Cerial Millers Association CEO Paloma Fernandez stressed transparency in fortification results.
This year’s KMFI attracted 26 companies with 113 brands across maize, wheat, and edible oil. Organizers plan to expand the awards to other categories, including salt.
