NAFDAC raises concerns as Fake Cowbell Milk Floods Markets

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control on Friday warned Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk across the country.

In an alert posted on its website, NAFDAC said Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authorised marketer and manufacturer of Cowbell “Our Milk,” notified the agency about the existence of fake products closely resembling the genuine Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk.

“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 stated.

To differentiate, the agency explained that genuine Cowbell milk is creamy, comes in revised PNG artwork labelled “Our Creamy Goodness,” and features laser-printed batch details. Coding is done on the designated coding area of the sachet, while the sealing and cutting on the vertical sides are automated.

ORIGINAL SACHET

In contrast, the counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachet milk does not resemble real milk. Its packaging uses the old PNG artwork labelled “Our Milk,” with batch details printed using ink instead of laser. The coding appears on an incorrect part of the sachet, and the sealing and cutting on the vertical sides are done manually.

Fake sachet

NAFDAC warned that consuming counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” poses severe 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,” it warned.

The agency directed all its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and mop up counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachet milk products from their jurisdictions.

It further advised distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution across the supply chain to prevent the distribution, sale, and use of the fake products.

“All food products must be obtained from authorised/licensed manufacturers or 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 agency added.