The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert and ordered the recall of a specific batch of Indomie instant noodles. The action targets the Indomie brand noodles (Vegetable Flavour Product) due to the discovery of undeclared allergens within the product.
Reason for the Recall: Undeclared Allergens Pose Health Risk
In a statement released on Thursday, December 19, 2024, NAFDAC explained that the recall was initiated following an alert from the French food safety authority, Rappel Conso. The agency confirmed that the noodles contain milk and eggs which are not declared on the product label.
This omission is critical as these ingredients are common allergens. For individuals with allergies or intolerances to milk or eggs, consuming the product could trigger severe reactions, posing a significant health risk.
Vigilance Urged Despite Import Ban
NAFDAC clarified that the direct risk of these products entering the Nigerian market through official channels is low. This is due to the existing Federal Government ban on the importation of noodles into the country.
However, the agency warned that there remains a possibility of illicit entry. The product could be brought into Nigeria through personal international travel or via online purchases. Consequently, NAFDAC has heightened surveillance at borders and points of entry to prevent any circulation of the implicated batch.
Actions for Distributors, Retailers, and Consumers
NAFDAC has issued clear directives to all stakeholders in the food supply chain:
- Distributors and Retailers are advised to exercise extreme caution and vigilance. They must check their stock and ensure the recalled Indomie Vegetable Flavour product is not being distributed or sold.
- Consumers who may have purchased the product are strongly advised not to consume it. They should discard the noodles immediately.
The agency also calls on the public to report any suspicion of the recalled noodles being sold in markets or stores. Sightings should be reported to the nearest NAFDAC office or via the toll-free number: 0800-162-3322.
This proactive measure by NAFDAC underscores its commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that food products in the market are safe and properly labelled, especially concerning potential allergens.
