By Atoyebi Nike
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has cautioned Nigerians about counterfeit versions of Cowbell “Our Milk” discovered in circulation. The agency disclosed that the imitation products mimic the original brand’s packaging, trademark, and NAFDAC registration number but are not produced by Promasidor Nigeria, the official manufacturer.
According to NAFDAC, the company last produced the milk in September 2023, yet fake versions bearing an April 2025 production date have surfaced in Nasarawa and Kano States. The counterfeit sachets, weighing 12g, reportedly contain substances that do not appear to be milk.
The packaging uses outdated PNG artwork, with batch details printed in ink rather than by laser. The coding appears outside the designated area, and sealing was manually done on the vertical sides, indicating poor manufacturing standards.
NAFDAC warned that consuming counterfeit milk can expose individuals to harmful chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted contents that fail to meet safety requirements. Such risks may lead to foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or death, with infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly especially vulnerable.
The agency has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to carry out surveillance and remove the fake products from markets. Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare providers, and caregivers have been urged to scrutinize products and ensure supplies come only from authorized sources.
NAFDAC advised consumers to verify the authenticity and condition of goods before purchase and to report suspected substandard or falsified products via its hotlines, email addresses, or official website. Reports of adverse effects can also be submitted through the Med-Safety mobile application or directly to the nearest NAFDAC office.
