Moms have been warning us for years to avoid the temptation of instant noodles - the quick-fix meal for the chronically lazy or time-strapped. Sadly, these savoury strands of convenience come at the cost of our health, leaving us with a choice: a piping hot bowl of MSG-laden noodles or a happier, healthier you. Tough call, isn't it?
Though, after reading this article, a few of you may come to the conclusion that our dear moms were, in fact, right all along.
A recent study conducted by Taipei City’s Health Bureau has found that two instant noodle brands, one from Malaysia and the other from Indonesia, contain carcinogenic substances that can significantly increase the risk of lymphoma, leukaemia, stomach, and breast cancers.
The Health Bureau carried out random inspections of 30 instant noodle products across various supermarkets, and the results were alarming. The two offending brands, Penang Ah Lai White Curry Noodles from Malaysia and Indomie’s Special Chicken Flavour from Indonesia were found to have dangerous levels of ethylene oxide.
This compound is known to cause cancer in humans and is commonly used to sterilize medical equipment and spices.
To put it into perspective, the National Cancer Institute states that high levels of ethylene oxide can significantly increase the risk of cancer. This news is particularly concerning because the amount of ethylene oxide discovered in the two instant noodle brands from Indonesia and Malaysia was found to be higher than the permitted levels of pesticide residue specified by the government of Taipei.
The Indomie’s Special Chicken Flavour seasoning powder was found to contain 0.187mg of ethylene oxide, while the Penang Ah Loi White Curry’s noodles and sauce packet had 0.065mg and 0.084mg, respectively.
These amounts might seem small, but they can add up over time, especially if instant noodles are a regular part of your diet.
The retailers have been asked to remove these two products from their shelves and products’ importers are at risk to be fined somewhere between NT$60,000 to NT$200 million. The Health Bureau then goes on to state that food businesses or pesticide manufacturers are allowed to use ethylene oxide.
What The Ministry Has To Say
The health ministry has ordered a voluntary recall of the former for batches expiring on Aug 25, 2023, from the Malaysian market.
The ministry has also issued a directive to hold, test and release the "Indomie Special Chicken Flavour" instant noodle product from Indonesia at all entry points of the country and urged its manufacturer to voluntarily recall the affected products from the market.
Health director-general Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan in a statement today said the ministry is aware of the report by Taipei's Department of Health on the detection of ethylene oxide in the "Ah Lai Penang White Curry Noodle" product from Malaysia and the "Indomie Special Chicken Flavour" instant noodle product.
"The health ministry is always aware and concerned over matters that can threaten the health of consumers. The public is advised not to purchase or consume these products,” he said.
Your Health Matters
It's shocking to think that something as innocuous as instant noodles could pose such a significant threat to our health. So, the next time you're tempted to reach for a quick and easy meal, remember to read the label carefully and choose healthier options. Your body will thank you in the long run.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Malaysia Now, Says & various cross-references for context.
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