The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed an audio recording circulating on social media that the agency has shut down the Tummy Tummy noodles manufacturing facility in Anambra State and imposed a ban on tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes.

In a statement, NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, recalled that the same audio first surfaced in October 2023 and was thoroughly investigated at that time.

She said contrary to the claims made in the recording, the Tummy Tummy noodles facility in Anambra State was not sealed.

The DG said 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. "The results returned satisfactory, with no infractions recorded," Adeyeye said.

She further stated, "The individual who created the audio falsely claimed to be acting in collaboration with NAFDAC 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. Read the full report here: bit.ly/3qUlepc
NAFDAC also affirms that there is no ban on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes in Nigeria.

"We urge 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."

ASA