The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has raised concerns about 32 million liters of substandard cooking oil that were sold in Kenya, despite being flagged as unfit for consumption.

According to KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari, the oil was found to lack essential Vitamin A, making it harmful for human health.

This deficiency can lead to various health issues, including vision impairment, skin disorders, and stunted growth.The substandard oil entered the market after 44 of 73 consignments cleared through Mombasa Port were approved, even though tests on some samples failed to meet the required standards. Despite KEBS instructing that the oil be either destroyed or sent back, it was sold due to KEBS lacking the authority to stop it.

The ongoing investigation has left the fate of other consignments uncertain, raising public health concerns.