Delhi government to act against Nestle over Maggi

New Delhi: The Delhi government on Tuesday said it would initiate a case against Nestle after it found that the tested samples of Maggi noodles were unsafe for consumption due to having lead beyond the prescribed limits.

"Last week, a total of 13 samples of Maggi noodles were lifted and on test/analysis of the same it was found that in case of masala (tastemaker) part of the Maggi noodles, 10 masala samples were found unsafe having lead exceeding the prescribed limits. The prescribed maximum limit of lead is 2.5 ppm," the government said in a statement.

Stating that "five samples of masala were also having monosodium glutamate without proper label declaration", the government said, "This falls under the category of misbranding."

Earlier on Tuesday, in a statement Nestle said the company regularly monitors all its raw material for lead, including testing by accredited laboratories which have consistently shown levels in Maggi noodles to be within permissible limits.

"The government has decided to initiate a case against the company for selling unsafe product and fine the company for misbranding of product," it said.

"The officials of Nestle will also be summoned by the Delhi government. The detailed and final report of the test/analysis is awaited and the government has decided to take further strict action in the case once it is received."

Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain said 10 in 13 samples of Maggi noodles sent for testing were found to have excess amount of lead.

"Out of 13 samples taken last week, 10 have been found to be containing lead more than the permissible limit. Eighty percent of the samples failed. The officials (of Nestle India which manufactures Maggi noodles) will be called tomorrow (Wednesday) and further action will be taken," Jain said.

Jain added that there was "incorrect information" provided on five of the 13 samples.