Cancer: Nigeria investigates as Malaysia, Taiwan recall Indomie noodles

The Federal Government is paying attention the recall of Indomie’s special chicken flavour noodles by the authorities in Malaysia and Taiwan.

The Asian countries took the action after detection of ethylene oxide, a substance known to cause cancer, in the product.

Ethylene oxide, a colourless and odourless gas, is used to sterilize medical devices, spices and sometimes used as a pesticide.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is starting a nationwide investigation this week.

Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye announced that from May 2, the agency will test selected packs of Indomie noodles.

“We plan to randomly sample Indomie noodles (including the seasoning) from the production facilities while PMS samples from the markets.

“The compound of interest is ethylene oxide. The director (Lab Services) is working on the methodology for the analysis,” Adeyeye added.

The health department in Taipei, capital of Taiwan, detected ethylene oxide in two types of instant noodles, including the chicken flavour, following random inspections.

A statement by the Taipei City Health Bureau insists raw materials and products used by companies must “comply with food safety and health management.”

Similarly, the health ministry in Malaysia said it examined 36 samples of instant noodles from different brands since 2022 and found that 11 samples contained ethylene oxide.

Indonesia-based Indofoods, the maker of Indomie instant noodles, has denied the allegations, assuring that its products are made in safe conditions.