by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour recently recalled by France’s consumer protection authority, Rappel Conso, did not originate from Nigeria and is not available for sale in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the agency’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC explained that the recall in France was due to the presence of undeclared allergens—milk and eggs—which could pose health risks to people with allergies or intolerances.
The agency said the clarification became necessary following public concern sparked by reports of the recall circulating online. NAFDAC stressed that the affected product is not registered for sale in Nigeria and that noodles are listed on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, making their importation into the country illegal.
As a precaution, NAFDAC said it has intensified surveillance nationwide, directing zonal directors and state coordinators to monitor markets and immediately remove the product if found in any part of the country. The Ports Inspection Directorate has also been placed on high alert to prevent the entry of the recalled noodles.
The agency recalled that in 2023, Indomie Special Chicken Flavour was mentioned in an international food safety alert raised by authorities in Taiwan and Malaysia, adding that investigations at the time confirmed that noodles produced in Nigeria were safe for consumption.
NAFDAC further noted that all Indomie Instant Noodles and other noodle brands approved for sale in Nigeria are manufactured locally and only registered after meeting strict regulatory requirements, including adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice.
Consumers were advised to remain vigilant, discard the recalled product if encountered, and report any suspected sale or distribution to the nearest NAFDAC office or via the toll-free number 0800-162-3322. Reports of adverse reactions can also be submitted through the agency’s e-reporting platforms on its official website.
NAFDAC reassured Nigerians of its commitment to protecting public health and preventing unsafe products from entering the local market.