The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has assured Nigerians that the Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour recently recalled in France did not originate from Nigeria and is not available in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency explained that the recall by French food safety authority, Rappel Conso, was due to the presence of undeclared allergens—milk and eggs—which could pose health risks to consumers with allergies or intolerances.
Following public concern sparked by reports of the recall circulating online, NAFDAC said it had intensified surveillance nationwide to prevent the possible entry of the affected product into Nigeria. Zonal directors and state coordinators have been instructed to seize and remove the product should it be found anywhere in the country.
The agency stressed that the implicated Indomie Vegetable Flavour is not registered with NAFDAC and is not authorised for sale in Nigeria. It further noted that noodles are on the Federal Government’s import prohibition list, making their importation illegal and significantly reducing the risk of the recalled product entering the Nigerian market.
NAFDAC also recalled that in 2023, Indomie Special Chicken Flavour was linked to an international food safety alert following concerns raised by authorities in Taiwan and Malaysia. At the time, the agency conducted investigations and reassured Nigerians that all Indomie noodles produced locally were safe for consumption.
According to the statement, 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 compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice standards.
The agency added that its Ports Inspection Directorate has been placed on high alert to prevent the importation of the affected product.
NAFDAC advised consumers to remain vigilant, discard the recalled product if encountered, and report any suspected sale or distribution to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its toll-free line, 0800-162-3322. Members of the public were also encouraged to report adverse reactions through NAFDAC’s e-reporting platforms on its official website.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, NAFDAC said it remains proactive in protecting the health of Nigerians, including those who travel abroad or purchase food products online.