This comes in the wake of the recall of Indomie instant noodles' special chicken flavour by the Ministries of Health in Malaysia and Taiwan on account of the alleged presence of ethylene oxide, a compound linked to an increased risk of cancer. NAFDAC is taking swift action to carry out random sampling and analysis of the product at the factory and market levels. The findings will be communicated to the public.
Furthermore, noodles are on the Import Prohibition List of the Federal Government of Nigeria and are therefore not permitted for importation. Adeyeye added that “the Indomie instant noodles products (and other brands of noodles) registered by NAFDAC for sale in the Nigerian market are manufactured in Nigeria and are only granted NAFDAC registration status following a strict regulatory regime covering all aspects of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).”
NAFDAC is not only investigating the Indomie brand but also extending the investigation to other brands of instant noodles offered for sale to Nigerians. Adeyeye assured the public that a thorough investigation of the products would be conducted both at the factory and market levels.
In addition to the investigations, the Ports Inspection Directorate is also on heightened alert to guard against the importation of the implicated product into Nigeria. Adeyeye stated that NAFDAC is “committed to safeguarding the health of the nation and remains resolute in its determination to ensure that only safe, quality and wholesome regulated products are distributed and consumed in Nigeria.”
It is noteworthy that NAFDAC, as a responsible and responsive regulator, is mandated to regulate and control the manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, advertisement, sale and use of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, bottled water and chemicals in Nigeria. This is done to ensure that only safe, quality and wholesome products are produced and consumed in the country.
The recall of the Indomie instant noodles in Malaysia and Taiwan shows the importance of effective regulation in safeguarding the health of consumers. Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive compound used as a sterilising agent for spices, herbs and certain vegetables. However, it has been found to be toxic and carcinogenic in animal studies.
As such, the need for a thorough investigation into the presence of ethylene oxide in instant noodles and other food products cannot be overstated. The actions taken by NAFDAC in this regard demonstrate the agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians. The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of unsafe or unwholesome products to the agency.