Be wary of instant noodles intake, say students

SHAH ALAM - Although instant noodles continue to be a top choice for Malaysian, regular intake should be avoided, say students.

This was in response to a recent report on Taipei Health Department confirming that two instant noodle brands from Southeast Asia have been found to contain cancer-causing substances.

Following the detection of ethylene oxide in Ah Lai Penang White Curry and Indomie Special Chicken Flavour products, the Health Ministry has ordered a voluntary recall of the White Curry Noodle product for the batches expiring on August 25, 2023, from the Malaysian market.

International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) student Nabilah Haron, 23 said instant noodles were among her top favourite, tasty, and budget friendly foods.

"Apart from hundreds of varieties to choose from in the market now, it is also kind on the pocket, especially for students who have a limited budget to work with.

"But it is also noted that, like any other food, If consumed excessively, it could be hazardous to your health. Noting that instant noodles are the least recommended food, one should be wary of their intake," Nabilah, who is majoring in Teaching English as a Second Language, added.

She further added that although instant noodles are easy to serve and taste so good, there are also several consequences to their consumption.

When asked if she was aware of the latest news that instant noodles have been found to contain cancer-causing substances, she said it is best that the consumption of instant noodles be controlled.

"Instant food, particularly instant noodles, should be the last choice if possible. Always prioritise real food first." Echoing Nabilah’s views, Nur Aifa Afra Nordin, 23, is also aware of the latest issue of instant noodles.

"I consume instant noodles four times a week because they are easy to cook and also tasty.

"However, in my opinion, we can consume it by cooking in ways that are considered healthy. For example, we can put vegetables on it and also not put all the seasoning on it," Aifa, the civil engineering student at Universiti Teknologi Petronas, said.

Meanwhile, Siti Amiratul Fathini Mustafa, 21, commented that she only eats instant noodles when she is desperate, especially when on a tight budget, or when she feels like eating once in a while.

"I think people still consume instant noodles, but they are more careful by choosing brands that are considered slightly safe to eat," the Business Studies student at Universiti Kuala Lumpur said.

The health 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 into the country and urged its manufacturer to voluntarily recall the affected products from the market.