Millers raise concern over high levels of aflatoxin in maize

The Cereal Millers Association (CMA) has raised concern over the increase in the supply of maize with high levels of aflatoxin.

According to the lobby of grain processors, aflatoxin levels from samples collected exceeded the regulatory allowed limit of 10 parts per billion.

The association added that this poses a grave threat to the health and wellbeing of Kenyans.

The Millers’ body further called on the relevant government agencies to sensitize farmers on the best practices, increase testing at cross border trade points and seek alternative uses of contaminated maize.

Maize growers have also been urged to strengthen their internal quality systems. CMA also called for regular audits to help mitigate the exposure and risk of milling contaminated maize thereby ensuring that the flour churned out is safe for human and animal consumption.

“The CMA additionally requests that all millers in Kenya adopt rigorous code of conduct, strengthen their internal quality systems and use scientifically proven methods of sampling and testing maize,” CMA noted.

Further, all mills must be audited regularly to ensure that they adhere to food safety regulations so as to help mitigate the exposure and risk of milling contaminated maize thereby ensuring that the flour churned out is safe for human and animal consumption.

Finally, the CMA is committed to working with government and co-operating with all other players in the flour value chain including farmers and traders in ensuring Kenyans access safe, nutritious and affordable flour,” the statement said.

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Aflatoxin maize

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