The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), has expressed concern over the revelation of the alleged presence of a carcinogenic compound (Ethylyne Oxide) in Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour and called on Nigerians to stay away from consuming indomie.
The Institute made this known to Journalists in Abuja in a Press Statement issued and signed by the Director-General/CEO of the Institute , Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu
According to him, the prompt intervention of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to carry out comprehensive investigation to ascertain the magnitude of the situation is timely and saving , noting that the review of Ethylyne Oxide shows that the compound has grave consequences to human health, especially, when consumed.
“Our in-dept review of Ethylyne Oxide indicated that it is a highly reactive chemical that is used as a raw material to make other compounds such as glycol ethers and polyglycol ethers, as well as a range of emulsifiers, detergents, and solvents.
“Ethylene oxide is also widely used as a fumigant for cleaning culinary goods, including spices. It is also frequently used to disinfect medical equipment, particularly those that might be harmed by heat sterilization.
“Our review also revealed that there is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of ethylene oxide, and there is strong evidence that the carcinogenicity of ethylene oxide, a direct-acting alkylating agent, operates by a genotoxic mechanism.
He added that Nigerians should also expect an increase in cancer cases among children because Indomie noddles is a popular food among most Nigerian children.
“NICRAT’s concern is premised on the fact that, cancer has claimed a lot of lives in Nigeria. In 2020 alone, 78,000 Nigerians died as a result of cancer related complications (34,200 males and 44,699 fameless).
He therefore, adviced Nigerians to obey NAFDAC’s instructions on the ban and consumption of Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour and pledged the institute collaboration with NAFDAC in ensuring the safety and protection of Nigerians from cancer causing agents.