The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert following the recall of Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles, citing the presence of undeclared allergens that could pose serious health risks to consumers.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, clarified that the affected product is not currently on sale in Nigeria. However, she said the agency has intensified nationwide surveillance to prevent the product from entering the country or circulating in local markets.

“In light of this development, NAFDAC has undertaken proactive measures as a responsive regulator by ensuring increased vigilance to guard against the possible entry of the recalled product into Nigeria,” the statement said.

“Surveillance has been directed across all zones and states, and zonal directors and state coordinators have been mandated to mop up the product if found within their jurisdictions.”

Prof. Adeyeye added that the agency’s Ports Inspection Directorate (PID) has been placed on heightened alert to prevent the importation of any implicated or unapproved noodle products into the country.

According to the statement, noodles are included on the Federal Government’s Import Prohibition List, making their importation illegal.

“It is important to note that noodles are listed on the Import Prohibition List of the Federal Government of Nigeria, meaning their importation into the country is not allowed. This significantly reduces the likelihood of the affected product entering the Nigerian market,” the statement noted.

Despite this safeguard, the Director-General said NAFDAC has sustained intensified nationwide surveillance as a precautionary measure.

She urged consumers to exercise caution, immediately discard the recalled product if encountered, and report any suspected sale or distribution to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its toll-free line, 0800-162-3322.

Prof. Adeyeye also encouraged members of the public to report any adverse reactions linked to consumption through the agency’s e-reporting platforms on its official website.