NAFDAC Alerts Public to Circulation of Counterfeit Cowbell Milk
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert over the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets in Nigeria.
In a notice published on its official website on Friday, NAFDAC said it received the alert from Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the registered manufacturer and marketing authorisation holder of the Cowbell milk brand. The company reported that counterfeit versions of its 12g sachet product bearing close resemblance to the original have infiltrated the market.
“These fake products are illegally using the Cowbell brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark,” the agency stated. Promasidor confirmed the counterfeit packaging is no longer in use, with the last genuine production using that design dating back to September 2023.
NAFDAC provided distinguishing features to help consumers identify the fake products. According to the agency, genuine Cowbell “Our Milk” is creamy and packaged using the updated PNG artwork labelled “Our Creamy Goodness”. Batch details are laser-printed within a designated coding area on the sachet, with automated vertical sealing and cutting.
In contrast, the counterfeit product uses outdated packaging labeled “Our Milk,” with batch details printed in ink instead of laser. The code appears outside the designated area, and sealing and cutting were done manually. NAFDAC added that the content of the counterfeit product “does not appear to be milk.”
The agency warned that consumption of the fake product poses serious health and safety risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
“Counterfeit milk may contain harmful substances including toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that fall below food safety standards,” NAFDAC said. “Health risks include foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or in extreme cases, death.”
To address the threat, NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify market surveillance and remove counterfeit products from circulation. It also called on distributors, retailers, and consumers to remain vigilant and ensure products are sourced from authorised and licensed suppliers.
Consumers and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report suspected counterfeit products or adverse effects to the nearest NAFDAC office. Reports can also be submitted via the agency’s dedicated phone line 0800-162-3322, email sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng