Paragraph 1: NAFDAC’s Counterfeit Milk Alert
The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a public health alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk in Nigeria. Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the legitimate manufacturer and marketing authorization holder, notified NAFDAC about the existence of these counterfeit products. The counterfeit milk mimics the genuine product’s branding, packaging, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark. Promasidor confirmed that they neither manufactured nor distributed these counterfeit products, stating that the packaging design used by the counterfeiters was last employed by the company in September 2023. This discovery raises serious concerns about public health and safety, particularly for vulnerable populations like infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Paragraph 2: Distinguishing Genuine from Counterfeit Cowbell Milk
NAFDAC provided clear guidelines to differentiate the genuine Cowbell milk from the counterfeit version. Genuine Cowbell milk has a creamy texture and uses revised packaging artwork featuring the tagline “Our Creamy Goodness.” Batch details are printed using laser technology, and the coding is placed in a designated area on the sachet. The sealing and cutting along the vertical sides of the genuine sachets are automated. Conversely, the counterfeit product lacks the creamy consistency of real milk and utilizes older packaging artwork with the tagline “Our Milk.” Batch details are printed with ink, not laser, and the coding is misplaced on the sachet. Additionally, the sealing and cutting on the counterfeit sachets appear to be done manually.
Paragraph 3: Health Risks Associated with Counterfeit Milk Consumption
The consumption of counterfeit Cowbell milk poses substantial health risks. These products may contain harmful substances such as toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that fail to meet food safety standards. Ingesting these contaminants can lead to various health issues, including foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, and organ damage. In severe cases, consumption of counterfeit milk can even result in death. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of these counterfeit products due to their more sensitive immune systems and physiological vulnerabilities.
Paragraph 4: NAFDAC’s Response and Call to Action
NAFDAC has initiated a multi-pronged response to address this threat. The agency directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance activities and remove the counterfeit Cowbell milk products from circulation within their respective jurisdictions. Recognizing the importance of public awareness and vigilance, NAFDAC issued an advisory to distributors, retailers, and consumers urging them to exercise caution and scrutinize products carefully. The agency emphasized the importance of purchasing food products only from authorized and licensed manufacturers and suppliers. Consumers are encouraged to inspect products for authenticity and to check their physical condition before purchase and consumption.
Paragraph 5: Reporting Suspected Counterfeit Products and Adverse Events
NAFDAC strongly encourages healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspected cases of counterfeit Cowbell milk or other substandard and counterfeit food products. Reports can be filed with the nearest NAFDAC office, by calling the agency’s hotline at 0800-162-3322, or by sending an email to [email protected] Furthermore, healthcare professionals and patients are urged to report any adverse events or side effects linked to the consumption of counterfeit food products using the same reporting channels or via the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website (www.nafdac.gov.ng) or by emailing [email protected] These reporting mechanisms are crucial for enabling NAFDAC to effectively monitor the situation, track the spread of counterfeit products, and take appropriate action to protect public health.
Paragraph 6: Importance of Public Vigilance and Collaboration
The discovery of counterfeit Cowbell milk underscores the importance of public vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding food safety. Consumers are reminded to be discerning shoppers and to prioritize purchasing food products from reputable sources. By working together, consumers, retailers, distributors, healthcare professionals, and regulatory authorities can create a stronger defense against counterfeit food products and protect the health and well-being of the Nigerian population. NAFDAC’s proactive approach, coupled with robust reporting mechanisms and public awareness campaigns, aims to mitigate the risks associated with counterfeit food products and ensure the safety and integrity of the food supply chain. The ongoing investigation and subsequent actions by NAFDAC will be crucial in addressing this public health concern and preventing further distribution of these potentially harmful counterfeit products.
