The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has dispelled concerns about methanol poisoning in Kenya following reports that the United Kingdom has listed the country as one of eight new nations at risk from counterfeit or tainted alcoholic beverages.
In a statement, KEBS reassured the public that methanol in Kenya is not suitable for drinking, as it has been deliberately altered to prevent human consumption.
“All methanol in the country is denatured by adding the bitterest chemical called denatonium benzoate. This means that methanol found in Kenya can never be mistaken for alcohol, as this component makes its taste extremely bitter for human ingestion,” the agency clarified.
KEBS reiterated that all imported or locally manufactured methanol must meet stringent national standards, including those for industrial use, safety, and testing methods for denatonium benzoate in alcoholic products.
The agency noted that all grades of methanol, except those intended for laboratory use, are denatured to prevent misuse, particularly by vulnerable consumers.
“The above standards are used in issuing product certification marks of quality to methanol, as well as in checking compliance before methanol is approved for intended use,” explained the agency, led by Esther Ngari.
However, KEBS has urged Kenyans to remain vigilant, stating: “We encourage the general public to report any products suspected to be substandard through the Wajibika na KEBS platform.”
