Nestle to destroy $50m of Maggi noodles after lead content scare in India

A batch of instant noodles worth more than $50m is being destroyed by Nestle, in what could be a major blow to the company’s reputation across India. Maggi noodles, the brand’s fastest-selling product, were ordered off shop shelves a fortnight ago after government tests revealed some packets contained unsafe levels of lead. Although Nestle insists the noodles are safe to eat, a massive operation is under way to collect tainted stock from factories and shops across the country. Consuming excessive amounts of lead can lead to bones, the nervous system and kidneys becoming damaged - and it has been linked to learning disorders in children. Also found inside the products were elevated levels of MSG, a flavour enhancer which was not included in the list of ingredients.

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