National Stakeholder Engagement Forum on the Review of Legal Notice No. 115 of 2015 on Industrially Produced Trans Fatty Acids

About This Program

As part of the stakeholders of the trans fatty acid elimination policy development initiative, the ACMHR-K participated in a stakeholder consultation convened by the International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA) to review the Draft Food, Drugs and Chemical Substances (Food Labelling, Additives and Standards) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026. The meeting brought together representatives from government agencies, public health organizations, academia, civil society, and development partners to critically examine the proposed legal notice before its finalization. Discussions focused on strengthening Kenya's regulatory framework for eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty acids (iTFAs) from the national food supply. Industrial trans fats are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease and stroke. In line with the World Health Organization's recommendation to eliminate industrially produced trans fats from the global food supply, Kenya is taking important steps toward aligning its food regulations with international best practices.

Program Objectives

During the review meeting, stakeholders discussed several key issues, including: • Proposed limits for industrial trans-fatty acids in foods. • Responsibilities of food manufacturers and importers in complying with the regulations. • Food labelling requirements to improve consumer information. • Monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement mechanisms. • Laboratory capacity required to support regulatory implementation. • Challenges associated with policy implementation, including industry compliance and stakeholder engagement.