Counterfeit Cowbell Milk found in Nigerian markets poses health risks. NAFDAC warns consumers against its use and urges immediate caution

Counterfeit Cowbell Milk has flooded Nigerian markets, prompting an urgent health alert from the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

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The agency has confirmed that fake versions of the popular Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet are being sold under the guise of genuine products.

NAFDAC was tipped off by Promasidor Nigeria Ltd., the original manufacturer and Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH), who identified unauthorized usage of their brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark on counterfeit products.

According to NAFDAC, these counterfeit Cowbell Milk sachets could pose serious health threats, especially to vulnerable populations like infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

The fake milk may contain toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted substances that do not comply with food safety regulations.

“Consumption of counterfeit milk can cause foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or even death in severe cases,” NAFDAC warned in a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

How to Identify the Fake

To help consumers distinguish the fake product, NAFDAC detailed several differences between the counterfeit and the authentic Cowbell sachets:

Both sachets claim to be 12g, but the fake contents are non-milky.
Genuine packaging uses a new PNG design “Our Creamy Goodness”, while the counterfeit uses outdated branding “Our Milk”.
Laser printing is used for batch codes on genuine packs, but the fake uses ink printing.
Original products have automated sealing and cutting, unlike the counterfeit versions which show signs of manual handling.
Coding area on the sachet is inconsistent between both.

Fake product details:

• Product Name: Cowbell Our Milk 12g
• Claimed Manufacturer: Promasidor Nigeria Ltd.
• Production Date: 04/2025
• Expiry Date: 12/2028

NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to commence surveillance and remove the fake milk from circulation.

Distributors and consumers are advised to verify sources and inspect product packaging carefully.

“All food products must be sourced from authorised/licensed manufacturers or suppliers,” NAFDAC emphasized.

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Consumers, retailers, and health professionals are urged to remain alert. Any suspicious products should be reported immediately to the nearest NAFDAC office.