Concerns Rise Over Safety of Indomie Noodles

Public concern is growing nationwide following an alert by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) over the recall of Indomie Noodles, Vegetable Flavour, after undeclared allergens were discovered in the product.

NAFDAC warned that the affected noodles contain milk and eggs, which were not listed on the label and could cause serious or life-threatening reactions in people with allergies or intolerances.

In a notice titled Public Alert No. 041/2025, the agency explained that the recall was prompted by information from France’s food safety authority, Rappel Conso, which flagged the product for failing to disclose the presence of the allergens. The recall applies to all batches of Indomie Noodles, Vegetable Flavour, with a best-before date of February 6, 2026. The country of origin was not specified.

NAFDAC noted that Indomie noodles are widely consumed in Nigeria and elsewhere due to their affordability and convenience, especially among children and young adults. Although the Federal Government has banned the importation of noodles, the agency stressed the need for vigilance to prevent illegal entry or circulation of the recalled product.

While the official risk of the noodles entering Nigeria is considered low, NAFDAC said the possibility of acquisition through online shopping or international travel could not be ruled out. It has therefore directed zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify nationwide surveillance and immediately remove the product if found.

Distributors, retailers and consumers were advised to avoid the sale, distribution or consumption of the recalled noodles. Consumers were urged to discard the product and report any sightings or suspected sales to the nearest NAFDAC office or via its hotline. The agency also encouraged the public to report any adverse reactions linked to the product as part of efforts to protect public health.

The alert has sparked widespread reactions on social media platforms such as X and Instagram, with many Nigerians questioning how the product could still reach the country despite the import ban. Concerns were particularly raised about children, who are among the highest consumers of instant noodles, while others called for tighter border controls, routine market inspections and closer monitoring of online marketplaces.

Amid speculation, Indomie Nigeria distanced itself from the recalled product, stating that it does not produce, import, distribute or sell any noodle variant known as Vegetable Flavour. In a statement, the company described reports linking it to the recall as misleading, noting that the product was recalled in France in August 2025 and that NAFDAC’s alert was precautionary.

Indomie Nigeria assured consumers that all noodles produced locally by Dufil Prima Foods meet safety and regulatory standards and are safe for consumption. It also dismissed images of the recalled product circulating online, saying the packaging does not match its approved branding and labelling. The company reminded the public that noodle importation into Nigeria is prohibited and urged consumers to be cautious of unfamiliar or unapproved products.