The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced a ban on the Indomie brand Noodles Vegetable Flavour due to the detection of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs. The agency said the presence of these allergens poses a health risk to consumers with allergies or intolerances.
The warning, issued in a statement on the agency’s official website on Friday, followed an alert from the French authority, Rappel Conso, which recalled the product in France due to the same concerns. NAFDAC described the action as Public Alert No. 041/2025.
“Recall of Indomie brand noodles (Vegetable Flavour Product) due to the presence of undeclared allergens (milk and eggs),” the statement reads.
Indomie noodles have been a popular household brand in Nigeria and many other countries. Known for their convenience, affordability, and versatility, they are commonly consumed as a quick meal or snack. The noodles’ widespread consumption makes the ban a significant public health announcement.
NAFDAC noted that the risk of the recalled product entering Nigeria is low due to the Federal Government’s existing ban on imported noodles. However, the agency stressed the importance of remaining vigilant against illegal entry, including through online purchases or international travel.
The agency said it has already started surveillance activities to prevent any possible entry or circulation of the affected noodles in the country. All NAFDAC zonal directors and state coordinators have been instructed to actively monitor and remove the product if it is found within their jurisdictions.
Consumers, retailers, and distributors were urged to exercise caution and ensure that the recalled Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles are not sold, distributed, or consumed. The agency emphasized that purchasing or consuming the product could lead to serious health risks, especially for individuals allergic to milk or eggs.
NAFDAC advised members of the public to discard any affected products they may have in their possession. People who come across the noodles being sold or distributed are encouraged to report it immediately to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the agency’s toll-free line: 0800-162-3322.
The agency also called on consumers to report any adverse effects or health issues related to the consumption of the product. Reports can be made directly to local NAFDAC offices or through the E-reporting platform on the agency’s website.
While the noodles are banned, NAFDAC reassured the public that the current vigilance and monitoring measures aim to prevent the products from entering Nigeria illegally. Authorities warned that products purchased abroad or online may still pose a risk if they are smuggled into the country.
Noodles have long been a staple in Nigerian households. Many families rely on them for quick meals, school lunches, and snacks, making the news of the ban particularly important. Allergic reactions to milk or eggs can be severe, including symptoms such as rashes, swelling, breathing difficulties, or in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock.
The recall highlights the importance of checking food products for safety and ingredient information before consumption. Experts say that undeclared allergens are a serious concern in public health because consumers cannot take preventive measures if they are unaware of the risks.
NAFDAC’s actions come at a time when food safety awareness is increasingly critical in Nigeria, especially as imported products continue to find their way into the market despite official restrictions. The agency’s efforts to monitor, inspect, and enforce compliance are part of a broader strategy to protect consumers and maintain public confidence in food safety.
Consumers are encouraged to be vigilant when purchasing any food items, especially imported brands, and to report suspicious products immediately. Retailers are also reminded of their responsibility to ensure that products sold meet the safety and labeling requirements established by NAFDAC.
The agency’s statement concluded by reiterating the public health risk posed by the recalled Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles and urging cooperation from all stakeholders to prevent any harm.
As the ban takes effect, NAFDAC will continue to monitor the supply chain, enforce compliance, and provide updates to the public regarding the status of the recalled product. Consumers are reminded that their safety is the top priority and that prompt reporting of violations can help protect the wider community.
This ban serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and regulation, especially for products consumed widely across households. Authorities say that strict adherence to importation rules and vigilance from consumers and retailers will help prevent similar issues in the future.
The public is advised to remain alert, avoid purchasing the recalled noodles, and report any incidents to NAFDAC immediately. The agency’s proactive approach aims to minimize any health risks associated with the consumption of unsafe or improperly labeled food products.
