The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has refuted a viral audio message circulating on social media and messaging platforms, which falsely claimed the agency shut down the Tummy Tummy noodles manufacturing plant in Anambra State and imposed a ban on tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes.
In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja, NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described the audio as false and dissociated the agency from its content.
According to Prof. Adeyeye, the same audio initially surfaced in October 2023 and was thoroughly investigated at the time.
“Contrary to the claims made in the recording, the Tummy Tummy noodles facility in Anambra State was not sealed,” she stated.
Prof. Adeyeye explained that a NAFDAC inspection team had conducted an unscheduled visit to the facility, collected samples of four different noodle variants, and submitted them to the Agulu Laboratory for analysis. The results were satisfactory, with no infractions recorded.
She further debunked the audio’s claim that the noodles contained “acetyl methyl” as a preservative, labeling it as unfounded and misleading.
“The individual behind the recording falsely claimed to be acting in collaboration with NAFDAC. No evidence supports the presence of such a substance in the product,” she emphasized.
Following concerns raised in 2023 about the presence of ethylene oxide in instant noodles, NAFDAC launched a comprehensive investigation at both the factory and market levels. The findings confirmed that ethylene oxide and its derivatives were not present in any instant noodles or seasonings produced in Nigeria.
Additionally, mycotoxin levels and heavy metals were found to be within internationally acceptable limits, affirming the safety of locally made noodles.
Prof. Adeyeye also clarified that there is no ban on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes in Nigeria.
She urged the public to disregard the misleading audio and avoid spreading unverified information.
“NAFDAC remains proactive and committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health by ensuring only safe, high-quality, and properly regulated food and drug products are available to Nigerians,” Prof. Adeyeye concluded.
End.
