A recent food safety alert from Taiwan has placed Indonesia’s iconic instant noodle brand, Indomie, under scrutiny. Authorities in Taiwan banned the Soto Banjar Limau Kuit variant after detecting ethylene oxide (EtO) residues, sparking public concern and regulatory responses. Indonesia’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has since clarified the product’s safety status and export circumstances, urging consumers to remain informed and discerning.
Key Facts & Background:
- Taiwan’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) detected ethylene oxide (EtO) at 0.1 mg/kg in the seasoning sachet of Indomie Soto Banjar Limau Kuit.
- Taiwan prohibits any detectable EtO in food products, differing from standards in Indonesia, the U.S., and the EU.
- BPOM confirmed:
- The product was not officially exported by Indofood but likely shipped by third-party traders without the producer’s knowledge.
- Indomie Soto Banjar variant has a valid distribution permit in Indonesia and is deemed safe for domestic consumption.
- Indofood is investigating the raw materials and will report findings to BPOM.
- Indofood CBP emphasized:
- All products meet BPOM safety standards and are produced under ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000-certified facilities.
- Indomie has been exported globally for over 30 years, complying with local food safety regulations.
- BPOM urged consumers to apply the “Cek KLIK” principle—check packaging, labels, permits, and expiry dates before consumption.
- Codex Alimentarius (WHO/FAO) has not set a global maximum residue limit for EtO.
Strategic Insights:
The Taiwan-Indomie case underscores the complexities of global food safety governance, where differing national standards can lead to regulatory friction—even for well-established brands. Ethylene oxide, commonly used in sterilization processes, is subject to varying thresholds across jurisdictions. Taiwan’s zero-tolerance policy contrasts with Indonesia’s more nuanced approach, which aligns with international practices that distinguish EtO from its metabolite 2-chloroethanol (2-CE).
BPOM’s swift response reflects the importance of regulatory transparency and public reassurance in managing cross-border food safety disputes. By clarifying the product’s domestic compliance and tracing its unofficial export route, BPOM reinforces its role as both a consumer protector and a facilitator of trade integrity. Indofood’s adherence to international food safety certifications further strengthens its credibility, though the incident highlights the need for tighter control over third-party distribution channels.