NAFDAC Warns Nigerians as Counterfeit Cowbell Milk Floods Market

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has released a public warning regarding counterfeit 12g sachets of Cowbell “Our Milk” that are being distributed throughout Nigeria.

In a website notice, the agency announced that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the producers of Cowbell milk, has reported counterfeit products imitating their brand.

This encompasses the unauthorized use of the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark.

NAFDAC stated, “The MAH has verified that these products are neither manufactured nor distributed by them since the counterfeit packaging design was last utilized for production by the company in September 2023.”

The agency states that the genuine product is creamy, packaged with the new “Our Creamy Goodness” design, has batch details laser-printed, and includes automated side sealing. Conversely, the fake version resembles milk less closely; it features an old “Our Milk” artwork, uses ink for batch detail printing instead of laser technology and displays misaligned coding along with edges sealed manually.

NAFDAC cautioned that consuming counterfeit Cowbell ‘Our Milk’ products poses significant health and safety dangers. These items might include harmful substances, such as toxic chemicals, unauthorized additives, or diluted ingredients that fail to meet food safety standards.

Consuming counterfeit milk can lead to foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or even death in severe cases. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially at risk.

The agency has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to locate and eliminate the counterfeit milk sachets from distribution. Additionally, it advised distributors, retailers, and consumers to remain alert and verify products before selling or consuming them.

The alert stated that all food products must be sourced from authorized or licensed manufacturers and suppliers, and emphasized the importance of thoroughly checking both their authenticity and physical condition.

NAFDAC also urged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspected counterfeit products by contacting its hotlines at 0800-162-3322, emailing sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng, or using the e-reporting platforms available on www.nafdac.gov.ng.

The statement further advised healthcare professionals and patients to report any adverse events or side effects from counterfeit food products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

They can also use the E-reporting platforms on the NAFDAC website at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or send an email to pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng for this purpose.

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