The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has alerted Nigerians to the circulation of fake Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk in the country, warning that the product poses serious health risks.
The agency, in a public notice issued on Friday, said Promasidor Nigeria Ltd—the official manufacturer and marketing authorisation holder of Cowbell products—had confirmed that the counterfeit sachets currently in the market were not produced or distributed by them.
According to NAFDAC, the fraudulent product mimics the original packaging by carrying the brand name, trademark, and even a NAFDAC registration number. However, the company disclosed that the packaging style used for the counterfeit variant was last employed in September 2023.
“The genuine Cowbell ‘Our Milk’ 12g sachet is creamy, with the new PNG artwork branded ‘Our Creamy Goodness,’ laser-printed batch details, and automated sealing,” NAFDAC explained. “In contrast, the counterfeit sachets are poorly packaged with the old artwork, ink-printed batch codes, and manual sealing.”
The agency cautioned that consuming the fake milk could endanger public health.
“Consumption of counterfeit milk can cause foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, and in extreme cases, death,” it warned. “Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these risks.”
NAFDAC said it had directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and mop up the counterfeit products nationwide. It also urged distributors, retailers, and consumers to be extra vigilant in the supply chain.
“All food products should be purchased only from authorised or licensed suppliers. Consumers are advised to carefully check the authenticity and condition of any product before purchase or consumption,” the agency stated.
Members of the public and healthcare professionals were also encouraged to report suspected counterfeit products to NAFDAC via its toll-free line (0800-162-3322), email ([email protected]), or through the e-reporting platforms on its website.
Promasidor, in its communication with the agency, reaffirmed its commitment to quality and consumer safety. “We remain resolute in protecting Nigerians from harmful imitations of our products and will continue to work with regulators to rid the market of these fakes,” the company said.
