Nairobi County Orders Closure of Naivas Supermarkets
On May 14, 2025, the Nairobi County Health Committee mandated the immediate closure of all Naivas Supermarket outlets in Nairobi. This decisive action follows the discovery of expired food items sold to consumers.
The committee, led by MCA Maurice Ochieng, inspected various Naivas branches, including the Moi Avenue outlet. During these inspections, they found expired Daima yogurt on the shelves and KICC Delight yogurt lacking precise manufacturing or expiry dates. Additionally, many food handlers at these outlets had not undergone the required health tests, posing further risks to public health.
Ochieng emphasized the importance of food safety, stating, “Food safety is a top priority, and we are urging the Nairobi County Executive Committee Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition, Suzanne Silantoi, to take immediate action.”
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The closure will remain in effect until Naivas conducts comprehensive product tests and obtains a clearance certificate from the county health authorities. Furthermore, all food handlers must undergo health testing and certification before the supermarkets can resume operations.
This is not the first time Naivas has faced scrutiny over product safety. In December 2024, the Ruaraka branch was closed due to structural concerns. In 2019, the supermarket chain suspended the sale of red meat after reports of contamination with sodium metabisulfite, a chemical preservative.
The Nairobi County Health Committee, comprising 23 members, has been actively inspecting eateries across the city to ensure compliance with health regulations. Their recent findings at Naivas underscore the ongoing challenges in maintaining food safety standards in Nairobi’s retail sector.
What’s Next for Naivas After Closure?
Consumers should remain vigilant and report suspicious food products to the relevant authorities. The county government continues prioritizing public health and safety and taking necessary action against establishments that compromise these standards.
Visit the Nairobi City County Assembly’s Health Services Committee page for information on food safety regulations and recent inspections.
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Stay informed and prioritize your health by ensuring your purchased products meet safety standards.
