Amid controversy over Maggi, Reliance Retail has decided to temporarily withdraw all 11 brands of instant noodles from its stores across India.

Sources in the company said the unprecedented step of removing all 11 instant noodle brands from its 2,621 stores in over 200 cities goes beyond piece-meal approach.

This, they said, was based on health and well-being of customers and unflinching commitment to stock only products of the highest assurance.

The names of the brands could not be ascertained immediately.

All instant noodle products removed from the shelves have been returned to the distribution centres and labelled as ‘Not For Sale’.

Designated Food Safety Officers have been informed of the action and a memorandum to Tamil Nadu’s Commissioner, Food Safety, is also being presented, they said.

However, Reliance Retail Value Formats Consumer Business CEO Damodar Mall said: “We believe that the uncertainty is unwarranted and undeserved. But it merits the launch of a robust, nationwide process of reassuring ourselves and serve our valued stakeholders.”