By Sabiu Abdullahi
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has assured Nigerians that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour recently recalled in France is neither produced in Nigeria nor sold in the country.
The clarification followed widespread public concern after reports circulated online about the recall of the product by the French authority, Rappel Conso of France, over the presence of undeclared allergens, namely milk and eggs.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency confirmed that the affected product did not originate from Nigeria and is not registered for sale in the Nigerian market. It added that surveillance had been activated nationwide to ensure the product does not find its way into the country.
The statement read, “The management of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is aware of the recall of Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour by the French authority (Rappel Conso of France) on account of the presence of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs, which may pose significant health risks to consumers with allergies or intolerances.”
NAFDAC explained that the agency had taken precautionary steps as a regulatory body to prevent any possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria.
“In light of this development, NAFDAC has undertaken some proactive measures as a responsive regulator by ensuring increased vigilance actions to guard against the possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria,” the statement added.
The agency disclosed that its officers across the country had received directives to remain alert and seize the product if discovered anywhere within their jurisdictions.
“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,” it stated.
NAFDAC further stressed that the specific Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour involved in the recall is not authorised for sale in Nigeria.
“The public is hereby informed that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour in question is not registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for sale in Nigeria,” the agency said.
It also pointed out that noodles remain on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, a factor that limits the possibility of the affected product entering the Nigerian market.