Tests are being conducted on Maggi noodles in Bahrain following claims of lead contamination.

Samples of the two-minute noodles were collected by the Health Ministry's public health laboratory after reports surfaced that dangerous levels of lead were found during routine tests on two dozen packets in India, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

Health Ministry Public Health and Primary Healthcare assistant under-secretary Dr Maryam Al Jalahma told the GDN yesterday (May 26) that the products would be recalled if the tests were positive for lead contamination.

“As soon as we received the news about concerns over high lead content in Maggie noodles, samples were collected from the market, which is currently under investigation at the public health lab,” she said.

“The main concern is the suspected high level of lead in the product which could have harmful health effects.

“If this is true all necessary action will be taken to withdraw the product from the market immediately according to health policies.”

The result of the investigation is expected to be revealed today.

According to reports, Nestle India was ordered to recall a batch of Maggi noodles from shops across the country following the tests conducted in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Initial tests also found high levels of added monosodium glutamate, a taste enhancer.

However, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India denied ordering a recall.

Dubai authorities also conducted tests on the noddles, reassuring consumers in the UAE of the safety of the product.

Nestle Middle East, which owns the brand, also confirmed the safety of its products.

“All Maggi products in the Middle East are compliant with the highest quality standards and are safe for consumption,” said Nestle Middle East media relations manager Lynn AlKhatib.

“We are so far not aware of any concerns raised from Bahrain or any other countries other than in Dubai.

“Our products are the same for the entire Middle East region including Bahrain and other Arab countries like Iran and Iraq.” - TradeArabia News Service