The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has expressed concern over the reported discovery of ethylene oxide in Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour’.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) raised the alarm following an investigation by the authorities in Malaysia and Taiwan.
On Tuesday, Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye assured that the noodles produced in Nigeria are safe for consumption.
In a statement on Wednesday, NICRAT Director General, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu commended NAFDAC for prompt intervention and commencement of a probe,
Aliyu said “Nigerians should expect an escalation of various forms of cancers in the months or years ahead”, depending on how long people have consumed the affected product.
The NICRAT DG noted that in 2020 alone, 78,000 citizens died as a result of cancer related complications (34,200 males and 44,699 females).
Aliyu advised the people to obey NAFDAC’s instructions on the ban and consumption of imported Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour’.
“We will further collaborate with NAFDAC in ensuring the safety and protection of Nigerians from cancer causing agents”, the statement added.
Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive chemical used to make glycol ethers, polyglycol ethers, emulsifiers, detergents, and solvents.
The carcinogenic compound is also used as a fumigant for cleaning culinary goods, spices, medical equipment, particularly those harmed by heat sterilization.