Is Royco Really Safe to Consume? Yes, It is

This post is an overview of the Royco seasonings; cubes and mchuzi mix powder discussing how safe they are to consume based on research studies done.

Before you go all “Oh, he’s paid to say this,” let me clarify: I’m not a Royco fan like the average Kenyan who throws it in every dish. In fact, I don’t even like the taste of Royco in most dishes—except maybe once in a blue moon when I’m cooking sukuma wiki. So, no, this isn’t some glowing endorsement of Royco. I’m just here to throw my two cents on myths that have been circulating for ages. Because I happen to have a food blog and I have run out of article ideas maybe? Maybe.

Table of Contents

Royco: Kenya’s National Treasure (Apparently)

Royco has grown into a bit of a spice empire, but for most of us, it’s still known for its seasoning powder (mchuzi mix) and cubes. According to a study, 65% of Kenyan households use Royco. So yeah, it’s a big deal around here.

Royco launched its now branch of natural spices, that are well natural and not seasonings like we were used to before

Read here: The New Royco Spices and Blends Overview

The Rumors: Royco Causes Ulcers and Cancer?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Royco being unhealthy. If Royco were as harmful as people claim, it wouldn’t still be on the shelves.

It’s been blamed for everything from ulcers to cancer, but there’s no actual proof. In fact, a study by KNDI (Kenya Nutritionists and Dieticians Institute) found it safe for consumption. So, unless you’d rather trust your neighborhood rumor mill than a nutritionist, we can safely say Royco isn’t harmful to consume.

Endorsed by KNDI (And Yes, There’s a Catch)

Now, KNDI even endorses Royco, which means not only is it safe, but it might even do you some good. But here’s the plot twist: the study was done in partnership with Unilever, the company behind Royco. So this is not exactly an independent study or “peer-reviewed.” So, take that how you will. My guess is they just wanted to put an end to the endless rumors.

For context, some seasonings like Aromat have been banned before—not because they were unsafe but for other reasons. Royco? Still going strong. So, is it safe? Yes. Is it healthy? Well, that’s a different debate altogether.

Royco’s bad reputation often stems from people complaining about heartburn or tummy troubles. Sure, some people might have a reaction to it, but ulcers and cancer? Those are baseless claims, like how people say everything causes cancer these days.

KNDI has officially certified and registered Royco Mchuzi Mix by Sections 6(j) and 36(2) of Cap 253B, along with its 2019 Amendment. This certification has led to the endorsement of the Royco Mchuzi Mix brand for both its culinary use and potential health benefits.

The study was carried out to inform the public about healthy dietary and nutrition practices, while also boosting consumer trust in the brand’s nutritional value, addressing widespread misconceptions among both consumers and local doctors.

Ingredients in Royco

Royco Mchuzi Mix

Corn Starch● Iodized Salt● Sugar● Monosodium Glumate● Natural Flavors (Onion● Cassia● Mace)● Coriander● Food Colors (Carmel● Sunset Yellow● Allura Red)● Turmeric● Sodium Inosinate● Sodium Guanylate● Citric Acid● Ginger● Fennel● Garlic● Cumin● Cinnamon● Methee● Artificial Beef Flavor).

This list of mchuzi mix includes both healthy and less desirable ingredients. Spices like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and coriander are definitely beneficial. However, artificial colors and additives (like, sodium inosinate, and artificial beef flavor) are best consumed in moderation, as some people may be sensitive to them or have long-term health concerns.

Royco Cubes

Salt● Palm Oil● Flavor Enhancers● Msg.

As for the cubes, unlike the mchuzi mix, they don’t have natural ingredients, infact over 60% of the ingredients of most cubes are usually salt, not so sure about the salt percentage in Royco but I’m sure it’s over 50%, while the other portion is the flavors which are not natural.

So if you had to choose the better one then mchuzi mix would be a little desirable for lower salt content (thus lower sodium intake), and more intake of natural ingredients.

Final Thoughts on Royco

When it comes to Royco, I’m Switzerland—completely neutral. I don’t love it, but I’m not about to boycott it either.

That’s why you’ll find it chilling in my pantry, ready for action, especially when it’s time for some sukuma wiki. But if we’re being honest, curry powder is my go-to—it just tastes better and, bonus, is all-natural.

Also Read: The 3 Best Curry Powder Brands in Kenya

Sure, Royco boasts 16 natural ingredients, but it’s also got some artificial additives that make me squint a bit. So, for taste and health points, curry powder takes the crown.

But hey, if you’re on the fence about Royco, just know there’s nothing inherently wrong with it… unless it gives you side effects, in which case, yeah, maybe skip it.