Amanze ChinonyeThe National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong disclaimer over a viral audio recording falsely claiming that it shut down the Tummy Tummy noodles manufacturing plant in Anambra State and banned tinned tomatoes and Maggi seasoning cubes in Nigeria.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, NAFDAC categorically denied any such actions, stating that the content of the audio is “false, misleading, and entirely unfounded.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to the agency, the same audio had previously surfaced in October 2023 and was thoroughly investigated at the time.
The agency confirmed that the Tummy Tummy facility in Anambra was never sealed. It said an unscheduled inspection by NAFDAC’s team included sample collection of four noodle variants, which were tested at the Agulu Laboratory. “The results returned satisfactory, with no infractions recorded,” the agency stated.
NAFDAC also refuted claims in the recording that alleged the presence of “acetyl methyl” in the noodles and that the creator of the audio was acting on behalf of the agency. “NAFDAC found no evidence to support the claims and reiterates that the company was not in violation of any safety or regulatory standards,” part of the statement read.
Addressing public concern over past food safety rumours, NAFDAC highlighted findings from a 2023 investigation into the presence of ethylene oxide a chemical linked to health risks in instant noodles.
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It explained that the investigation, which covered both factory and market samples, confirmed that no ethylene oxide or its derivatives were found in Nigerian-produced noodles or seasonings. Additionally, mycotoxin and heavy metal levels were found to be within internationally accepted safety limits.
The agency also reaffirmed that no ban exists on tinned tomatoes or Maggi seasoning cubes, contradicting further claims made in the viral recording.
The agency urged the public to disregard the misleading audio and refrain from sharing unverified information.
“We remain committed to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only safe, high-quality, and properly regulated food and drug products are available to Nigerians,” said Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC’s Director-General.
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