The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has warned manufacturers and traders against using its quality mark on drinks containing miraa, saying it has not approved any such beverages under its product certification scheme.
In a notice issued on Friday, October 16, the bureau said some manufacturers had been using permits issued for fruit juices and other drinks to market beverages infused with miraa, also known as khat.
KEBS clarified that a permit issued for one type of product cannot be used to suggest that a different product has also been approved.
The bureau said miraa and products made from it are currently excluded from its certification scheme because of concerns over the stimulant substances found in the plant.
“KEBS has therefore not issued Standardisation Mark permits for any khat-infused beverages,” the agency said.
The bureau warned that businesses found misusing its Standardisation Mark (S-Mark) could face action under the Standards Act, Cap. 496.
It also said it was carrying out market surveillance to identify traders and manufacturers who misrepresent the certification status of their products. According to KEBS, some permits have already been revoked in cases where violations were found.
The agency cautioned that displaying its mark on a product that has not been approved could mislead consumers into believing it has met the required standards.
Consumers have also been urged to verify product certification instead of relying on the mark displayed on packaging.
KEBS said members of the public could use its official verification channels, including SMS code 20023, to check whether a product is certified. Consumers can also report suspected misuse through the bureau’s toll-free line.
The warning comes as miraa traders continue to seek better access to regional export markets.
In February, the government reopened designated Kenya-Somalia border points to facilitate road transport of miraa to Somalia following requests from traders.
In 2025, the Ministry of Cooperatives also announced plans to organise miraa supply through specialised cooperatives and improve security along transport routes. The plans included efforts to secure Djibouti as an additional export market.
The latest notice makes clear that traders dealing in miraa-based drinks cannot use KEBS certification permits issued for other beverages to imply that their products have been approved.