The debate over the safety of sugar-free beverages has intensified following recent claims about sulphur-based sweeteners. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has stepped in to clarify consumer concerns regarding additives in soft drinks, providing essential information on labeling practices and safety regulations.
KEBS Response to Consumer Concerns
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has refuted claims that sulphur-based sweeteners are ‘secretly’ being added to sugar-free drinks without proper consumer warnings.
KEBS made the clarification after the Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) alleged that some of these soft drinks in the country’s market contain sulphur-based sweeteners like Acesulfame-K, which it claims are unfit for human consumption.
“Why are ‘sugar-free’ drinks sneaking these additives into tiny, unreadable ingredient lists with zero allergy warnings, yet wine makers clearly warn consumers? Who is protecting consumers here?” COFEK stated on their social media account.
A silhouette of a man drinking alcohol.
Photo
Adobe
However, in response, KEBS clarified that manufacturers of soft drinks are only required to declare sulphur-containing ingredients when they exceed 10mg/kg, which is the threshold set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The board explained that the threshold is meant to safeguard consumers against allergic responses and other chemical reactions associated with sulphur-based compounds.
“The Kenya Standards have a threshold of 10mg/kg as set by the WHO/FAO expert committee on allergies & chemical reactions beyond which any product containing sulfur-containing ingredients must declare. It is not true that there are ingredients being sneaked,” KEBS stated.
The board further assured that all additives used in soft drinks are thoroughly scrutinized before being approved for use in the country.
Soft drink manufacturing companies are required to list all ingredients added to their drinks on product labels, according to the agency.
Government Initiatives for Public Health
In recent months, the government has signaled plans to regulate the soft drinks industry to protect public health and curb the rise of diet-related diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
Just last year, Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur had proposed the introduction of a tax, the Health Promotion Levy, on sugary beverages to promote public health.
The lawmaker tabled the proposal in May during the public hearing of the 2025 Finance Bill.
In his proposal, the MP argued that the levy, if adopted, would push manufacturers to reduce sugar levels in their products while generating revenue to support public health initiatives and school nutrition programs.
“The increasing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages in Kenya has contributed significantly to rising cases of obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases,” Kitur said.
“To mitigate this public health crisis, we propose the introduction of the Health Promotion Levy in the soft drinks industry. This levy aims to reduce sugar consumption, encourage healthier product reformulation, and generate revenue to support public health programs,” he added.
The entrance to the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) headquarters in Nairobi.
Photo
KEBS
Key Takeaways
- KEBS denies allegations of hidden sulphur-based sweeteners in sugar-free drinks.
- Manufacturers must disclose sulphur ingredients exceeding 10mg/kg.
- The threshold is in place to protect against allergic reactions.
- Soft drink labels must list all added ingredients transparently.
- Proposals for a Health Promotion Levy aim to curb sugar consumption.
- Government initiatives are focused on improving public health related to diet.
FAQ
What are sulphur-based sweeteners?
Sulphur-based sweeteners are artificial sweeteners that may contain sulphur compounds, used in some sugar-free beverages.
What is the purpose of the Health Promotion Levy?
The levy is proposed to reduce sugar intake and support public health initiatives by generating revenue.
How are additives approved for use in soft drinks?
All additives must undergo a thorough scrutiny process by KEBS before being approved for market use.
What should consumers look for on beverage labels?
Consumers should check for ingredient lists to understand what is in their drinks, especially regarding sugar levels and additives.
In summary, the KEBS has actively ensured consumer safety through established guidelines concerning additive labeling. The ongoing conversations around public health measures indicate a significant focus on reducing sugar-related health issues in Kenya.
