The Ministry of Health has published the much-awaited Kenya Nutrient Profile Model (KNPM) online, a pivotal milestone in the country’s efforts to create a healthier food environment and protect the well-being of its people.
The move, which comes amid a growing challenge of diet-related noncommunicable diseases (DR-NCDs), driven by changing dietary patterns and lifestyle factors, has been welcomed by policymakers.
The International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA) hailed the government, noting that the KNPM serves as a cornerstone for advancing Kenya’s food policy agenda in line with global best practices.
“IILA is proud to have been part of this critical journey. The Kenya Nutrient Profile Model sets the country firmly on the path toward introducing front-of-pack warning labels, an evidence-based tool proven to reduce demand for unhealthy products,” said Celine Awuor, CEO of IILA.
She explained that the document, set to be launched soon, lays a strong foundation for the development of key food environment policies, including front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWL), restrictions on marketing unhealthy products to children, fiscal measures, and food procurement in public institutions, among others.
As highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO), nutrient profiling models are critical tools for identifying foods high in nutrients of concern whose consumption is usually linked with NCDs.
According to the Kenya STEPs survey, the consumption of foods high in fats, sugars, and salt has led to an increased prevalence of conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and various cancers.
“The burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Kenya continues to rise, driven in part by the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods typically high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. The Kenya Nutrient Profile Model is a timely and transformative measure that aligns with global best practices and demonstrates the Ministry of Health’s strong leadership and commitment to public health”, she added.
Additionally, IILA applauded the Ministry’s proactive approach and commitment to advancing policies that prioritise public health, protect children from harmful food marketing, and empower citizens with the information needed to make healthier choices
“The successful implementation of this model will mark a significant step forward in building a healthy food system that prioritises the health of all Kenyans”, Ms Awour said.
GET THE FACTS: THE BURDEN AND TRENDS OF NCDS IN KENYA
- Approximately 39% of all deaths in the country are attributable to NCDs.
- The four major NCDs: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs), cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases comprise 57% of all the NCD deaths.
- 53% of NCDs and 72% of injury disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) occur among persons aged 40 years and below
- According to the Kenya Demographic Health Survey, 2022, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults aged 20-49 has increased
- 45% of women and 19% of men are obese or overweight
- 53% of women aged 20–49 in urban areas are overweight or obese compared with 39% in rural areas.
- 25% of men aged 20– 49 in urban areas are overweight or obese compared with 14% in rural areas
Source: Kenya Demographic Health Survey
