Nutrition experts are cautioning Nigerian parents against the habit of feeding children instant noodles as their main meal. Stressing that the popular dish lacks the essential nutrients required for healthy growth and development.
They explained that while noodles provide quick energy. They do not supply enough protein, vitamins, or minerals. According to the experts, the rising dependence on noodles as quick-fix meals is contributing to malnutrition, weak immunity, and stunted growth among children.
Prof. Wasiu Afolabi, former President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, emphasized that noodles are made mainly from cereals and therefore offer mostly carbohydrates. He noted that children need balanced meals containing protein, vegetables, and fruits to thrive.
“Instant noodles are not nutritionally adequate. If served, they should be complemented with eggs, vegetables, or legumes to improve their value. A nutritious meal is colorful, and the more colors on the plate, the healthier it becomes,” Afolabi advised.
He warned that children who depend largely on noodles face immediate risks such as frequent illness and poor growth. In the long term, they may suffer stunted development, low immunity, and higher chances of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Afolabi urged parents to explore affordable local foods and consider backyard farming to enhance nutrition while reducing household expenses. He noted that indigenous crops and legumes can provide quality nutrition at lower costs.
Supporting this view, Prof. Beatrice Ogunba, a Public Health Nutritionist at Obafemi Awolowo University, stressed that poor complementary feeding practices after six months of breastfeeding are fueling malnutrition in under-five children. She pointed out that the WHO and UNICEF discourage giving infants noodles, sugary drinks, and processed snacks, instead recommending vegetables and fruits with every meal.
Both experts concluded that dietary variety, indigenous foods, and balanced nutrition remain essential to raising healthier Nigerian children.
