The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Lagos publicly disclosed its findings from an investigation regarding the presence of ethylene oxide or its byproducts in noodles and their seasonings.
According to the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof Christianah Adeyeye, no ethylene oxide or its derivative was found in any of the instant noodles manufactured in Nigeria, including their seasonings.
The levels of mycotoxin and heavy metals were also within the internationally accepted limits. Therefore, it can be concluded that the noodles produced in Nigeria are safe for consumption.
The investigation was initiated due to recalls of Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour’ in Malaysia and Taiwan based on allegations of ethylene oxide presence, a compound associated with an increased cancer risk. NAFDAC conducted thorough investigations across production facilities and markets, collecting samples for laboratory analysis.
Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry detector was used, and a total of 114 samples were received and tested for ethylene oxide, its derivative, mycotoxins, and heavy metals. Adeyeye clarified that the delay in laboratory activities was due to the procurement and supply of necessary materials from overseas.
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