The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Friday issued a warning about the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets in Nigeria.
According to an alert on the agency’s website, Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the official manufacturer and marketing authorization holder (MAH) of Cowbell “Our Milk,” reported the existence of products closely resembling the genuine 12g sachets.
“These counterfeits involve unauthorised use of the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark. The MAH confirms these products are not manufactured or distributed by them; the packaging design in question was last used in September 2023,” NAFDAC stated.
The agency explained how to distinguish the genuine product: the authentic Cowbell milk is creamy, uses the updated PNG artwork “Our Creamy Goodness,” has batch details laser-printed in the designated coding area, and features automated vertical sealing and cutting.
In contrast, counterfeit sachets reportedly contain non-milky contents, feature the old PNG artwork “Our Milk,” have batch details printed with ink in the wrong area, and are manually sealed and cut on the vertical sides.
NAFDAC warned that consuming fake Cowbell milk poses serious health risks, including exposure to toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients. Possible effects include foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, and in severe cases, death—particularly threatening infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
The agency directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove counterfeit products from circulation.
Consumers, retailers, and distributors were advised to remain vigilant, only purchase from licensed manufacturers or suppliers, and verify product authenticity and condition.
Suspected cases of counterfeit or substandard food products should be reported to the nearest NAFDAC office, via the hotline 0800-162-3322, or by email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. Adverse events linked to counterfeit products can also be reported through NAFDAC’s E-reporting platform at www.nafdac.gov.ng or via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.
