NAFDAC denies banning Tummy Tummy noodles, Maggi, others

NAFDAC denies banning Tummy Tummy noodles, Maggi, others

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has disowned an audio recording claiming it has shut down the manufacturing facility of Tummy Tummy noodles in Anambra State and imposed a ban on tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes.

This is contained in a Wednesday statement signed by Director General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.

Adeyeye disclosed that the audio recording is recirculating on social media and messaging platforms after first surfacing in October 2023, when it was thoroughly investigated.

Adeyeye said, “NAFDAC categorically disclaims the contents of the recording and fully dissociates itself from it.”

She added, “Contrary to the claims made in the recording, the Tummy Tummy noodles facility in Anambra State was not sealed.

“A NAFDAC inspection team conducted an unscheduled visit to the facility, collected samples of four different noodle variants, and submitted them to the Agulu Laboratory for evaluation.

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“The results returned satisfactory, with no infractions recorded.”

The NAFDAC DG disclosed that the individual who created the audio falsely claimed to be acting in collaboration with the agency and alleged the presence of “acetyl methyl” as a preservative in the product.

“This was unfounded and misleading. NAFDAC found no evidence to support the claims and reiterates that the company was not in violation of any safety or regulatory standards.

“Furthermore, following widespread concern in 2023 about the presence of ethylene oxide in instant noodles, NAFDAC conducted a comprehensive investigation at both factory and market levels.

“Findings confirmed that ethylene oxide or its derivative was NOT present in any instant noodles or seasonings produced in Nigeria.

“Additionally, mycotoxin levels and heavy metals were within internationally acceptable limits, confirming the safety of Nigerian-made noodles.”

Similarly, Adeyeye affirmed that there is no ban on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes in Nigeria.

She urged the public to disregard the misleading audio and refrain from spreading unverified content.

“NAFDAC remains proactive and committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health by ensuring that only safe, high-quality, and properly regulated food and drug products are available to Nigerians,” Adeyeye stressed.

NAFDAC denies banning Tummy Tummy noodles, Maggi, others