The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that the recalled Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour, flagged by French authorities, did not originate from Nigeria and is not sold in the country.
NAFDAC said the product was recalled by Rappel Conso, France’s consumer safety authority, over the presence of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs, which pose health risks to individuals with allergies or intolerances.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the agency’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC said it had activated nationwide surveillance to prevent the possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria.
The agency said zonal directors and state coordinators across the country had been directed to intensify monitoring and to immediately mop up the product if found in any jurisdiction.
“In light of this development, NAFDAC has taken proactive measures by increasing vigilance to guard against the possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria.
“Surveillance has been directed across all zones and states, and zonal directors and state coordinators have been mandated to mop up the product if found within their jurisdictions.”
The agency stressed that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour in question is not registered with NAFDAC for sale in Nigeria.
It further noted that noodles are listed on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, meaning their importation into the country is not permitted, a development NAFDAC said significantly reduces the likelihood of the recalled product entering the Nigerian market.
NAFDAC added that all Indomie instant noodles and other noodle brands registered for sale in Nigeria are manufactured locally and are only approved after undergoing strict regulatory scrutiny covering all aspects of Good Manufacturing Practice.
The agency said its Ports Inspection Directorate had also been placed on heightened alert to prevent the importation of the implicated product.
“Consumers are strongly advised to exercise caution, discard the recalled product if found, and report any suspicion of its sale or distribution to the nearest NAFDAC office or via the toll-free line, 0800-162-3322.
“Adverse events or side effects related to consumption should be reported through NAFDAC’s e-reporting platforms available on www.nafdac.gov.ng.
“NAFDAC wishes to reassure the public that the agency remains proactive in safeguarding public health, including Nigerians who may travel abroad or purchase products online,” the statement added.
