,The Kenya Bureau of Standards has introduced a new standard establishing requirements for the production, processing, blending, packaging, labeling, and conformity assessment of low-carbon tea. The standard applies to various tea types derived from Camellia sinensis, including black, green, purple, white, and oolong tea, as well as blended tea products intended for retail or other distribution channels. Herbal infusions that are not derived from Camellia sinensis are excluded from the scope.
The standard incorporates internationally recognized frameworks for greenhouse gas accounting and food safety management, referencing methodologies such as ISO 14067 for product carbon footprint assessment, ISO 14064-1 for greenhouse gas quantification and reporting, and PAS 2050 for evaluating life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions. Food safety management requirements align with ISO 22000, while labeling provisions follow KS EAS 38.
Under the new requirements, prepackaged low-carbon tea products must include clear labeling that provides information on the product’s carbon footprint per unit (g CO?e/kg), the name and identification code of the verification body, and the manufacturer or responsible operator. The label must also include traceability details such as the batch number and production or blending dates. Additionally, carbon-related claims must be accurate, verifiable, and supported by documented evidence.
The standard allows the use of digital tools such as QR codes to provide consumers with access to a summary carbon footprint statement and verification details, including links to sustainability or life-cycle assessment reports. Products may also display recognized eco-labels where certified under additional sustainability schemes, such as the Fairtrade Climate Standard or Rainforest Alliance Certification.
Strict conditions are established for environmental claims. The claim “carbon neutral” may only be used where all residual emissions have been fully offset using verified carbon offset units and the offsetting mechanism is transparently disclosed. In contrast, the “low carbon” claim can only be applied when the documented emissions of the tea product fall below the applicable national benchmark.
The introduction of the standard aims to promote climate-responsible tea production, enhance transparency in carbon footprint reporting, and support sustainable practices within the tea supply chain while providing consumers with clearer information about the environmental impact of tea products.