Kenya to launch new horticulture standards next month
Through a new standard to be launched next month, the KS1758 for fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, the sector will be put under regulations that must be proved before being allowed to handle export produce.
It means that from farm to fork, all processes along the chain must be recorded as a measure to show that a product has adhered to every laid down procedure without exception. The processes are captured in an electronic system called the National Horticulture Traceability System which raises the red flag at the earliest detection of negligence.
Kenya has since 2012 faced challenges in the European Union market over cases of excess pesticide residues and quarantine pests that has cost the country billions of shillings in export losses, leading to the new development.
Latest data indicates the horticulture sector earned Sh102.5 billion in foreign exchange last year, the second largest after tea.
Read more at mediamaxnetwork.co.ke
