The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has debunked rumours circulating on social media alleging that it shut down the manufacturing facility of Tummy Tummy noodles in Anambra State and imposed a ban on tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Agency described the viral audio recording as “false and misleading”, emphasising that it had no basis in fact.
According to NAFDAC, the same audio clip first emerged in October 2023 and was thoroughly investigated at that time.
“Contrary to the claims made in the recording, the Tummy Tummy noodles facility in Anambra State was not sealed,” the Agency 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.”
The individual behind the recording, who falsely claimed to be acting in collaboration with NAFDAC, had alleged the presence of acetyl methyl as a preservative in the noodles. However, the Agency stated categorically that these claims were “unfounded and misleading”.
Furthermore, NAFDAC clarified that it carried out a comprehensive investigation last year following public concern over the potential presence of ethylene oxide in instant noodles. It confirmed that neither ethylene oxide nor its derivative was detected in any instant noodles or seasonings produced in Nigeria. Mycotoxin levels and heavy metals were also found to be within internationally acceptable limits.
“There is no ban on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes in Nigeria,” NAFDAC affirmed.
The Agency urged Nigerians to disregard the misleading audio and refrain from spreading unverified information, reiterating its commitment to ensuring that only safe, high-quality, and properly regulated food and drug products are available to the public.
Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, assured that the Agency remains proactive in its mandate of safeguarding public health.
