NAFDAC WARNS AGAINST COUNTERFEIT COWBELL 12G SACHET MILK IN CIRCULATION
By Aishat Momoh. O.
The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert on the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Friday, the agency said Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authorised manufacturer and marketer of Cowbell milk, confirmed that the counterfeit products bear close resemblance to the genuine version but are not produced or distributed by the company.
According to NAFDAC, the fake products unlawfully carry the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark. Promasidor further clarified that the packaging design being used by counterfeiters was last used for production in September 2023.
The agency highlighted several red flags that distinguish the counterfeit sachets, including:
Packaging with outdated PNG artwork,
Batch details printed with ink instead of laser,
Coding placed outside the designated area,
Manually sealed and cut vertical sides, and
Contents that do not resemble milk.
NAFDAC warned that consumption of the counterfeit milk poses serious health risks. “Such products may contain harmful substances, including toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that do not meet food safety standards,” the statement read.
The agency cautioned that infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, with possible health consequences ranging from foodborne illnesses and allergic reactions to organ damage or even death in severe cases.
NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove the counterfeit products from circulation. It also urged distributors, retailers, and consumers to remain vigilant and ensure all food products are obtained from authorised suppliers.
Reports of suspected counterfeit products or adverse reactions can be made to NAFDAC offices nationwide, via its toll-free number 0800-162-3322, or through the email addresses [sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng](mailto:sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng) and [pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng](mailto:pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng).
