The launch comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that fortifying staple food to enhance consumption of multiple nutrients
Thika-based food and beverage manufacturer Capwell Industries has become the first manufacturer in Kenya to launch fortified rice containing essential vitamins and minerals in its prominent brands as it seeks to promote and enhance the intake of nutrients.
The launch comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that fortifying staple food to enhance consumption of multiple nutrients is critical so as to reduce vitamin and mineral deficiencies among the vulnerable people- the children and women.
This means that the manufacturer’s rice brands- Pearl, Pishori and Super Basmati, have been fortified with vitamins B6, Folic Acid, B12, iron and Zinc in all packets ranging from a kilogramme to 10 kilogrammes.
Capwell Industries’ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Rajan Shah said that globally, food fortification has been identified as one of the most cost-effective nutrition interventions for preventing and controlling micronutrient deficiencies.
“By fortifying our Pearl rice brands, we ensure that consumers, especially those who rely on rice as a staple, can easily incorporate these nutrients into their diets without compromising on flavour, colour or shell-life,” says Mr Shah.
The company has over 30 nutritious food products under its name and is aligned with the Kenya National Food Fortification Strategic Plan and guidelines of the 2018 to 2022.
The manufacturer’s ISO 22000 certification underscores its dedication to providing safe, quality and healthy food options in the country and beyond.
Ms Veronica Kirogo, the Director of Nutrition and Dietetics Services at the Ministry of Health said that the government is committed to eliminating malnutrition by supporting initiatives like the one driven by Capwell Industries.
“The Ministry is considering rice, the third-most important cereal crop in Kenya with a per capita consumption of 28 kilogrammes as a potential vehicle for fortification,” Ms Kirogo said.
The changing eating habits have seen rice consumption rise by 12 percent with WHO recommending fortifying the staple food to enhance micronutrient intake.
A policy brief on rice fortification was developed in 2023 with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KeBS) playing a crucial role in preventing and controlling micronutrient deficiencies to ensure better health for Kenyans.
Already, KeBS has drafted an East African Standard for rice fortification, which is currently awaiting adoption at the regional level.
WHO country director Lauren commended Capwell Industries for the leadership in rice fortification, noting the positive impact on public health and economic standards.
This even as she advocated for the inclusion of fortified rice in school meal programmes to further enhance public health outcomes among children.
According to the 2011 Kenya National Micronutrient Survey, at least 33 percent of children aged between a half to five years and 42 percent of pregnant women are anaemic due to lack of essential nutrients such as iron.
Studies show that zinc deficiency affects 83 percent of children in this age bracket and 68 percent of pregnant women.
Also, 32 percent of non-pregnant girls aged 15 to 19 have folate deficiency with 48 percent having vitamin B12 deficiency.