The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarm over the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet in Nigeria.

 

The agency disclosed on Friday via its official website that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authorised manufacturer and marketer of Cowbell milk, alerted it to the presence of a fake product closely resembling the genuine brand.

 

According to NAFDAC, the counterfeit product unlawfully carries the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark, even though Promasidor last used that particular packaging design in September 2023.

 

Genuine Cowbell Milk: Creamy in texture, packaged with the revised “Our Creamy Goodness” PNG artwork, laser-printed batch details, coding within the designated coding area, and automated sealing and cutting on vertical sides.

Fake Cowbell Milk: Content does not resemble milk, packaged with the old “Our Milk” artwork, ink-printed batch details, coding outside the designated area, and manually sealed and cut edges.

 

 

NAFDAC warned that consumption of the counterfeit Cowbell milk poses serious health dangers, as the fake product may contain toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients. Risks include foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, and in severe cases, death. Vulnerable groups such as infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly at risk.

 

The agency has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and mop up the counterfeit products from circulation. It urged distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and ensure food products are purchased only from authorised sources.

 

Consumers and healthcare professionals have been advised to report suspected counterfeit products or adverse reactions to the nearest NAFDAC office, call the toll-free line 0800-162-3322, or send an email to sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. Reports can also be submitted through the agency’s e-reporting platforms on www.nafdac.gov.ng or via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.