Nutritionists Warn of Increasing Junk Food Consumption

Nutritionists and public health experts in Kenya are issuing a strong warning over the rapid rise in consumption of ultra-processed and junk foods, citing links to growing rates of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to a recent assessment by the Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNI), sales of ultra-processed packaged foods in Kenya soared by 16% between 2017 and 2023.
The Ministry of Health has raised the alarm that more than 90% of packaged foods in Kenyan supermarkets fail to meet nutritional standards set by the newly developed Kenya Nutrient Profile Model (KNPM). These foods are often loaded with unhealthy levels of sugar, salt, and saturated fats — ingredients that are strongly associated with NCDs like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
To address this growing health threat, the Ministry of Health is proposing bold measures. Under the KNPM, processed foods that exceed certain thresholds would be required to carry mandatory front-of-pack warning labels, such as High in Sugar, High in Salt, or High in Fat displayed in a black octagon. The idea is to help consumers make informed choices and encourage food manufacturers to reformulate products to make them healthier.
Experts are also calling for stricter regulations on the marketing of junk food, especially to children. Studies show that radio stations across Kenya promote ultra-processed foods heavily, particularly during times when children are likely to listen — a trend that nutritionists say is fueling unhealthy eating habits among the young. Without stronger policies and public education, they warn, Kenya may face a surge in diet-related illnesses that could overwhelm the healthcare system and undermine long-term public health.