BY RITA OYIBOKA
THE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning following a ban by European Union (EU) authorities on Dove Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorant, citing contamination with a harmful chemical substance.
The agency made this known in a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) platform.
“NAFDAC is notifying the public that European Union Authorities have placed a ban on the marketing and sale of Dove Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorant in Brussels, Belgium.
‘’The products do not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as they are said to contain 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), which is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its risk of harming the reproductive system, causing harm to the health of an unborn child, and potentially causing skin sensitisation.”
BMHCA, also known as Butylphenyl Methylpropional, has been classified in the EU as a reproductive toxicant and is banned in all cosmetic formulations. NAFDAC reminded the public that the importation of soaps into Nigeria is prohibited under the country’s restricted import prohibition list. Additionally, soaps and cosmetic products are among the items ineligible for access to foreign exchange for import purposes.
The affected Dove products are not listed in NAFDAC’s official product database, indicating they may be unregistered or illegally imported.
“Importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, or use of the above-mentioned products.
Members of the public in possession of the products should discontinue use immediately and submit any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
NAFDAC also urged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse health effects linked to the use of regulated products.
