The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Friday warned Nigerians about fake Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets being sold in the country.
NAFDAC said on its website that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the company that makes and owns the rights to Cowbell milk, reported the presence of a product that looks almost the same as the original Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet.
The fake milk was found to be using the Cowbell brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark without permission.
Promasidor confirmed that the counterfeit product is not made or distributed by them. They also noted that the design used on the fake milk was last used for genuine production in September 2023.
NAFDAC explained how to tell the difference: the real Cowbell milk is creamy, uses the new “Our Creamy Goodness” design, has batch numbers printed with laser, coding done in the correct area, and proper automated sealing on the sides.
On the other hand, the fake milk does not look like real milk. It uses the old “Our Milk” design, batch numbers are printed with ink, coding is placed wrongly, and the sealing on the sachet sides is done manually.
NAFDAC warned that consuming the fake milk is dangerous. It may contain harmful substances, toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that fail food safety standards.
The agency said such products can cause food poisoning, allergies, organ damage, or even death in serious cases. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are most at risk.
NAFDAC has asked all its zonal directors and state coordinators to monitor and remove the fake Cowbell 12g sachet from circulation.
Distributors, retailers, and consumers were also advised to be careful and check products properly before selling or buying. Only food from authorized manufacturers and suppliers should be trusted.
The agency urged healthcare workers and consumers to report any suspected fake or substandard products to the nearest NAFDAC office, by calling 0800-162-3322, or by emailing sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
Reports of side effects linked to counterfeit food products can also be made through NAFDAC’s E-reporting platform at www.nafdac.gov.ng or via email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.
