Unlocking Expert Knowledge in Food Safety Management Systems
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), through the Centre for Food Safety and Naturopathy (CeFoNa), hosted a three-day food safety short course from Wednesday 14th to Friday 16th, May 2025 at the Institute of Food Bioresources Technology. The course brought together MSc students from DeKUT and food industry stakeholders particularly from Karuthai Industries Ltd Kirinyaga, in a comprehensive training session that focused on ISO 22000:2018, HACCP, PRPs and Food Safety Procedures.
The training which spanned three intensive days was designed to offer practical and theoretical insights into modern food safety protocols and industry standards. CeFoNa spearheaded the event as part of its mandate of coordinating applied food safety research and provision of professional capacity-building services in Kenya.
This unique collaboration between academia and the private sector cemented DeKUT’s commitment to bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and real world applications. MSc students from DeKUT joined hands with Karuthai Industries Ltd to explore current food safety management systems, with a focus on risk reduction and compliance with ISO 22000:2018 which is an international benchmark for food safety.
The training covered several key areas, including:
- Understanding the key elements of food safety required by ISO 22000.
- Navigating the ISO 22000:2018 standard by getting a comprehensive understanding of all clauses, terms and requirements.
- Applying the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle at two levels within a FSMS forcontinuous improvement.
- Mastery of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles for effective risk management.
- Implement Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) and Operational Prerequisite Programs (OPRPs) as outlined in ISO/TS 22002-1, as control measures to potential hazards
Participants also engaged in practical sessions which involved gaining hands-on experience in food safety audits, risk assessments and drafting food safety procedures, skills essential for modern food entrepreneurs and safety managers.
CeFoNa continues to play a pivotal role in advancing food safety, naturopathy and functional foods in Kenya. With its ongoing efforts, including the establishment of a therapeutic herbal garden and commercialization of natural products, the Centre stands as a model for applied research and innovation in the food sector.
This training initiative not only fulfilled CeFoNa’s mandate of offering relevant, practical training but also reinforced DeKUT’s role as a leader in industry-focused education. It was a significant step forward in building a knowledgeable and compliant food sector in Kenya, capable of meeting both local and international safety standards.
By receiving this certification, the students not only gained recognition for their knowledge but are left better positioned to contribute to the improvement of food safety practices in Kenya and beyond. This certification also reinforces DeKUT’s commitment to equipping students with the practical skills needed to navigate the complex landscape of food safety by ensuring they are ready to lead and innovate in the sector.
As food safety continues to be a critical global concern, such training opportunities are essential for equipping the next generation of professionals with the skills and insight to lead safe, innovative and sustainable food systems.
For more information on upcoming training and research programs feel free to check out our website: https://cefona.dkut.ac.ke/
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