The Kenya Bureau of Standards has approved a new code of practice to guide sanitary production and distribution of miraa produce in the country. Kebs Managing Director, Bernard Njiraini, said the code of practice will ensure hygienic production and handling from the farms to final distribution channels. "Additionally, the new guidelines will be used by the sector regulators for registration and certification of operators along the entire value chain. This will facilitate businesses to meet market and pre-export sanitary and phytosanitary requirements," Njiraini said. The new Kenya National Workshop Agreement (KNWA) - KNWA 2940: 2021, Miraa (Khat) industry Code of practice requires operators in the miraa supply value chain including, miraa growers, propagators, aggregators, transporters, shippers and cargo handlers to observe hygiene practices and ensure sanitary operationsOther codes of practice are to comply with food packaging requirements, keep relevant records and labelling system that demonstrate traceability, while also adhering to relevant regulations including worker’s health, safety and welfare.

Source: The Star June 07, 2021 09:33 UTC