A Food Hygiene Certificate (also called a Food Handler’s Certificate) is required for all individuals who handle, prepare, or sell food for public consumption in Kenya. It is distinct from the Food Hygiene Licence issued to business premises — the certificate applies to individual food handlers and confirms that the person is medically fit and has no communicable diseases.
The certificate is issued by county public health departments or approved health facilities after a medical examination. Nairobi County also offers an online application pathway through its county services portal. The certificate is typically valid for six months and must be renewed thereafter.
Food Hygiene Certificate Fees
| Fee Component | Amount (KES) |
|---|---|
| Medical Examination / Certificate Fee (approved facility) | 700–1,000 |
| Nairobi County Online Processing | 700–1,000 |
| Private lab / clinic (e.g. Cerba Lancet Kenya) | ~750 |
Common Food Handler Documentation Costs
| Document | Cost (KES) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Food Hygiene / Handler Certificate | 700–1,000 | 6 months |
| Medical Certificate of Good Health | 100–700 | Varies |
| Food Hygiene Licence (business premises) | 5,000–10,000+ | Annual |
| County Single Business Permit | 5,000–50,000 | Annual |
How to Obtain the Certificate
Visit an approved county health facility or a KEBS-approved laboratory with your national ID. You will undergo a medical examination covering stool and blood tests to confirm freedom from typhoid, amoeba, and other communicable diseases. For Nairobi County, the service is available online through the Nairobi County portal. Processing is usually completed within one working day.
Contact: Ministry of Health, Afya House, Cathedral Road, Nairobi | Tel: +254 20 2717077
