NAFDAC alerts public to fake milk products

By Maryanne Awuya, Abuja

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert about counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets being sold in Nigeria.

According to a notice on NAFDAC’s website, the manufacturer, Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, notified the agency after discovering a product that closely imitates their genuine Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet.

It reads: “This includes unauthorised use of the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark.

“The MAH has confirmed that these products are neither manufactured or distributed by them as the counterfeit packaging design was last used for production by the company in September 2023.”

NAFDAC has provided clear instructions on how to differentiate genuine Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets from the fake ones currently in circulation.

What to watch out for in authentic Cowbell Milk:

* Color: The milk powder is a creamy color.
* Packaging: Features the updated PNG artwork with the phrase “Our Creamy Goodness.”
* Batch Details: Printed using laser printing in the designated coding area on the sachet.
* Sealing: The vertical sides are sealed and cut by automated machines.
Counterfeit Cowbell Milk:
* Content: The product inside does not appear to be milk.
* Packaging: Uses the older PNG artwork that reads “Our Milk.”
* Batch Details: Printed with ink on a different area of the sachet, not the designated coding area.
* Sealing: The vertical sides are sealed and cut manually.

It also reads: “The use or consumption of counterfeit Cowbell ‘Our Milk’ Milk presents serious health and safety risks.

“Such products may contain harmful substances, including toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that do not meet food safety standards.

“Consumption of counterfeit milk can result in foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or even death in severe cases. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.”

The agency urged all NAFDAC zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and mop up the counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachet Milk products within their zones and states.

“Distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to prevent the distribution, sale, and use of the counterfeit milk product.

“All food products must be obtained from authorised/licensed manufacturers/suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.

“Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of sale of substandard and counterfeit food products to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng

“Similarly, healthcare professionals and patients are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of counterfeited food products to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via e-mail on pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng,” the statement said.