The Nairobi County Assembly’s Helath Committee has ordered the immediate closure of all Naivas Supermarket outlets over the sale of expired products.
Speaking on Wednesday, May 14, Nairobi County Health Committee, led by Maurice Ochieng, said the retail chain has been selling expired products, putting consumers’ health at risk.
“We are here at Naivas Moi Avenue, and we have realised that there are expired products on the shelf, putting Nairobians at risk,” Mr. Ochieng said.
The committee alleged that it had discovered expired Daima Yoghurt on the Supermarket’s shelves while KICC Delight Yoghurt lacked an indicated shelf life.
“Food safety is a top priority, and we are urging the Nairobi County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition, Suzanne Silantoi, to take immediate action,” he added.
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The Nairobi County Health Committee then directed Naivas to conduct product tests and reapply for a clearance certificate before resuming normal operations.
“Also, we found out that the people handling this product have not been tested. Therefore, as a committee, we resolve to close all the Naivas outlets in Nairobi so that they can be tested and be given certificates so that they are able to serve the Nairobians.”
Naivas is the largest supermarket chain in Kenya with a 40 percent market share and over 100 branches countrywide, including 30 in Nairobi.
In the financial year 2024, the retailer reported a 19.6 percent profit dip to Sh1.9 billion from Sh2.3 billion.
The drop was attributed to structural reorganization, expansion cost and increased competition from Carrefour and Quickmart.
The leading grocery retailer in Kenya has around 107 stores countrywide and over 12,000 employees.
