The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control has alerted Nigerians to a recall involving a batch of Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles after tests revealed the presence of undeclared allergens that could endanger consumers with food sensitivities.

In a public notice titled Public Alert No. 041/2025, NAFDAC said the action followed information received from France’s food safety authority, Rappel Conso. According to the agency, the affected product was found to contain milk and eggs that were not listed on the packaging.

Health concerns over hidden allergens

NAFDAC explained that undeclared allergens pose serious risks, particularly to people with allergies or food intolerances. Exposure, the agency warned, can trigger severe reactions that may require urgent medical attention.

According to the alert, the recall covers Indomie Noodles, Vegetable Flavour, across all batches, with a best-before date of February 6, 2026. The country where the recalled product was manufactured was not indicated in the notice.

Indomie noodles are widely consumed in many countries and are popular for their affordability and convenience. However, food safety experts note that undeclared allergens remain a leading cause of food-related recalls globally. According to public health specialists, clear labeling is essential to protect vulnerable consumers and prevent avoidable health emergencies.

Risk of illegal circulation

NAFDAC acknowledged that Nigeria currently bans the importation of noodles. Despite this, the agency said caution is still necessary to prevent the illegal entry or circulation of the recalled product.

While the likelihood of the affected noodles entering the Nigerian market is considered low, NAFDAC noted that access through online shopping platforms or international travel cannot be completely ruled out.

“As a precautionary measure, NAFDAC has commenced vigilance actions to guard against possible entry of the implicated Indomie brand into the country,” the agency stated.

Nationwide surveillance intensified

The agency disclosed that its zonal directors and state coordinators have been instructed to step up surveillance nationwide. Any of the recalled product found in markets or storage facilities is to be immediately removed from circulation.

NAFDAC also advised distributors, retailers and consumers to remain alert throughout the supply chain and to avoid selling, buying or consuming the recalled foreign Indomie noodles.

Consumers who encounter the product were urged not to eat it but to dispose of it safely. The agency further called on members of the public to report any suspected sales of the recalled noodles to the nearest NAFDAC office.

In addition, NAFDAC encouraged consumers to report any adverse reactions linked to the consumption of the product. Such reports, the agency said, are vital to strengthening food safety monitoring and protecting public health across the country.