Esther Salifu
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has officially refuted claims circulating in a viral audio recording that allege the shutdown of Tummy Tummy noodles’ manufacturing facility in Anambra State and a ban on tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes.
In a statement signed by NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the agency clarified that the audio, which first emerged in October 2023 and has resurfaced on social media and messaging platforms, contains false information.
The recording falsely claims that NAFDAC collaborated in shutting down Tummy Tummy noodles’ facility due to the presence of “acetyl methyl” as a preservative.
Prof. Adeyeye stated, “Contrary to the claims made in the recording, the Tummy Tummy noodles facility in Anambra State was not sealed.”
NAFDAC further explained that an unscheduled inspection was conducted at the Tummy Tummy noodles facility, during which samples of four different noodle variants were collected and analyzed at the Agulu Laboratory.
“The results were satisfactory, with no infractions found,” the agency emphasized.
Regarding concerns about ethylene oxide in instant noodles, NAFDAC conducted a comprehensive investigation in 2023.
“Findings confirmed that ethylene oxide or its derivative was NOT present in any instant noodles or seasonings produced in Nigeria,” Prof. Adeyeye noted.
Additionally, levels of mycotoxins and heavy metals were within internationally acceptable limits, affirming the safety of Nigerian-made noodles.
NAFDAC also clarified that there is no ban on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes.
“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,” Prof. Adeyeye affirmed.
The agency urges the public to disregard the misleading audio and refrain from spreading unverified content.
