In response to a viral social media video claiming that Golden Penny semovita contains plastic or harmful contaminants, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has urged the public to disregard these claims and exercise caution when using social media to address concerns about regulated products
NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye urged the public to disregard these claims.
In the video, a woman is seen washing Golden Penny semovita in a sieve with cold water, alleging that the residue left behind is plastic. However, NAFDAC said it conducted a thorough investigation and found no evidence of plastic or similar harmful substances in Golden Penny semovita. The agency said it used internationally accredited laboratories to perform analytical testing on various brands of semolina, including Golden Penny’s, and confirmed its safety.
Semovita is a brand of semolina, a popular wheat flour consumed worldwide. It primarily consists of water, carbohydrates, and gluten-forming proteins, which contribute to its unique properties. Gluten is composed of two protein classes, glutenin and gliadin, that combine with water to form a protein network responsible for the viscoelastic properties of semolina-based products. The rubbery appearance observed in the video is a result of the gluten forming after mixing with water during the washing process. It is important to note that semolina does not contain plastic; it only exhibits viscous and elastic characteristics.
NAFDAC emphasises that Golden Penny semovita is safe for consumption and contains the expected components, including the required Vitamin A. The agency advised the public to rely on credible information sources and refrain from spreading misleading claims through social media.
NAFDAC confirmed the absence of plastic or harmful contaminants in Golden Penny semovita.
Semovita is a semolina-based product that exhibits viscous and elastic properties due to gluten formation, not plastic content. Consumers can continue to enjoy this popular flour without concerns about its safety.
