Newspapers not for wrapping meat, officials warn as they arrest 10 butchers

Newspapers are not for wrapping meat. Period. This was the firm message from Homa Bay county officials after they arrested 10 butchers for wrapping meat in old newspapers.

The butchers and their agents who buy meat in bulk were nabbed on Thursday in an operation conducted by health officials and police officers.

The health executive, Richard Muga, said the traders had violated a 14-day notice to stop using newspapers, adding that the ink contained lead and other heavy metals that were injurious to consumers' health.

Prof Muga said the ban extended to all food and directed that vendors instead use plain white or brown paper.

“Newspapers are published using ink which contains lead and other heavy metals whose consumption can kill human beings,” said Muga.

“Let residents understand that the arrest and ban are implemented to ensure safety of their safety. We want to ensure Homa Bay residents consume fresh foods,” he added.

He directed meat traders to package meat in plain papers which are either white or brown.

“The plain papers are suitable for packaging the meat because they lack the dangerous metals used for making ink,” he added.

A senior politician in the country once amused Kenyans when he belittled newspapers, saying they are only for wrapping meat. "Gazeti ni ya kufunga nyama tu" (Newspapers are just for wrapping meat and nothing else). His remarks were meant to deride journalists after he complained of negative publicity.