Four Indomie Variants Withdrawn in Australia: Sold by Illegal Importers, Only for the Indonesian Market

Kapanlagi.com - PT Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk has finally provided an explanation regarding the withdrawal of four Indomie product variants in Australia by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). The withdrawal occurred due to negligence in including allergen information on the packaging label. The four affected variants are Indomie Mi Goreng Rasa Rendang, Indomie Rasa Ayam Bawang, Indomie Rasa Soto Mie, and Indomie Mi Goreng Aceh.

In an official statement submitted to the Indonesia Stock Exchange and received by Liputan6.com on Friday, December 20, 2024, Indofood CBP emphasized that this withdrawal does not directly impact the company. This is because the withdrawn products are not the official export results from Indofood CBP to Australia, but rather products specifically intended for the Indonesian market and distributed by importers who have no official affiliation with the company.

Indofood CBP believes that all instant noodle products they produce meet the applicable food safety standards, both in Indonesia and in the export destination countries. However, what actually happened behind the withdrawal of these four Indomie variants in Australia? Let’s take a closer look at the complete review!

1. Product Recall by FSANZ

In a surprising move, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has announced the recall of four Indomie variants from the shelves of Australian markets.

The affected variants include Indomie Mi Goreng Rasa Rendang, Indomie Rasa Ayam Bawang, Indomie Rasa Soto Mie, and Indomie Mi Goreng Aceh, with expiration dates varying until 2025.

This recall was initiated because the product packaging did not include important allergen information, potentially endangering those with allergies or intolerances to ingredients such as milk and eggs. FSANZ emphasizes the importance of consumer safety, and this action is expected to protect public health.

2. Indofood CBP Clarification: Products Not for Export Market

In response to the surprising product recall, PT Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk firmly clarified that the recalled items were not officially exported to Australia.

This can be seen from the packaging that uses Bahasa Indonesia, not English. Indofood CBP emphasized that these instant noodle products are indeed intended only for the domestic market.

They ensure that every product exported to Australia is always labeled "export product" and includes allergen information in accordance with local regulations.

3. Indofood CBP Food Safety Standards

Indofood CBP firmly ensures that every instant noodle they launch meets the food safety standards established by the National Agency of Drug and Food Control of the Republic of Indonesia (BPOM RI) as well as the international Codex standards for instant noodles.

Not only that, these products have also obtained the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) certification and are produced in facilities certified with ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000, which guarantees a strict food safety management system.

To provide extra protection for consumers, Indofood CBP also clearly and firmly lists allergen information on the product packaging intended for the Indonesian market, in accordance with BPOM RI Regulation No. 31 of 2018 concerning Processed Food Labels.

4. No Material Impact on Indofood CBP

Indofood CBP firmly states that the product recall in Australia does not violate regulations and will not significantly affect its operations or financial performance.

Currently, all instant noodle products from Indofood CBP that are officially exported to Australia can still be marketed and distributed without hindrance by the appointed official distributors, with no recalls or holds from Australian authorities.

The company suspects that the recalled products entered Australia through illegal import channels, and the error in allergen labeling is the sole responsibility of the unofficial importer, not Indofood CBP as the manufacturer.

5. Why Was Indomie Withdrawn in Australia?

Four variants of Indomie had to be withdrawn from circulation in Australia due to a serious issue: their packaging did not include mandatory allergen information, violating strict regulations from FSANZ.

6. Is the Withdrawn Indomie in Australia Safe to Consume?

Indofood CBP assures that the withdrawn products remain safe for consumption and have met all applicable food safety standards in Indonesia. However, for those with allergies or intolerances to milk and/or eggs, it is advisable to avoid these products for health reasons.

7. Did Indofood CBP Violate Regulations in Australia?

Indofood CBP firmly states that they did not violate regulations in Australia, as the withdrawn products were not officially exported to that kangaroo country. All products supplied to Australia have met the strict allergen labeling standards in place.

8. What is the Impact of the Indomie Product Recall in Australia for Indofood CBP?

Indofood CBP firmly assures that the product recall will not significantly affect the company's operations or financial performance.

9. What is Meant by Allergens in Food?

Allergens are substances that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, and the effects can vary widely.

10. What are the New Allergen Labeling Requirements in Australia?

Starting February 25, 2024, Australia will introduce new regulations regarding allergen labeling, where allergen information must be displayed more clearly and legibly on food packaging.

(kpl/srr)