The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified reports surrounding the recall of Indomie Noodles Vegetable Flavour in France, assuring Nigerians that the affected product did not originate from Nigeria and is not registered for sale in the country.
A product recall is a safety action taken by regulators or manufacturers to withdraw a product from sale after it is found to pose a potential health risk.
The clarification follows a recall notice issued by French authorities under the Rappel Conso system, which raised concerns among Nigerian consumers after the news circulated online.
Why the Product Was Recalled in France
According to NAFDAC, the Indomie Vegetable Flavour recalled in France was flagged due to the presence of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs.
The agency explained that these undeclared ingredients could pose health risks to individuals with allergies or food intolerances, prompting the recall by French regulators.
Recalled Product Not Registered or Sold in Nigeria — NAFDAC
NAFDAC stressed that the recalled Indomie product does not originate from Nigeria and is not registered by the agency for sale in the Nigerian market.
The agency further explained that noodles are listed on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, making their importation into Nigeria unlawful. This restriction, NAFDAC said, significantly reduces the likelihood of the affected product entering the country.
All NAFDAC-Registered Indomie in Nigeria Is Locally Manufactured
In its statement, NAFDAC reassured the public that all Indomie instant noodles and other noodle brands registered for sale in Nigeria are manufactured locally.
The agency added that these products are approved only after meeting stringent regulatory requirements, including full compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
NAFDAC Intensifies Surveillance Nationwide
As part of proactive regulatory measures, NAFDAC announced that it has:
- Intensified surveillance nationwide
- Directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to remain vigilant and immediately mop up the product if found within their jurisdictions
- Placed the Ports Inspection Directorate on alert to prevent any attempted importation of the implicated product
NAFDAC has advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid unregistered food products.
Consumers are encouraged to report any suspected sale or distribution of the recalled product to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the agency’s toll-free line: 0800-162-3322.
Reports of adverse reactions can also be submitted via NAFDAC’s e-reporting platforms available on the agency’s official website.
NAFDAC has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring the safety of food products available to Nigerians.
The agency confirmed that the Indomie Vegetable Flavour recalled in France is not linked to products sold in Nigeria, assuring consumers that NAFDAC-registered Indomie noodles remain safe for consumption.