NAFDAC Issues Recall for Nivea Roll-On Due to Health Concerns

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an urgent recall of Nivea Black & White Invisible Roll-on deodorant, 50ml, which is marketed as providing 48-hour protection in African climates. This action follows a warning from the European Union Rapid Alert System for Dangerous non-food products based in Brussels.

In a notice released on Thursday, NAFDAC identified the product’s batch number as 93529610. The agency’s alert underscores serious health concerns associated with the product, which has been linked to harmful chemical ingredients.

“The recalled Nivea product is reported to contain 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, a chemical prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential to cause harm to the reproductive system, impair the health of an unborn child, and cause skin irritation and burns to users,” NAFDAC explained in its announcement.

The agency emphasized that the affected product is manufactured in Germany and carries the Bar Code Number 42299882. NAFDAC urged all stakeholders in the supply chain, including importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers, to exercise heightened caution and vigilance regarding the affected roll-on deodorant.

“Members of the public in possession of the affected batch should cease sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the notice stated, calling for immediate action from consumers who might have purchased the product.

In light of these health risks, NAFDAC is also encouraging healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse reactions experienced from using the product. “Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events experienced with the use of regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the agency added.

Reports can be submitted via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, through the E-reporting platforms available at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or through the Med-safety application, which can be downloaded on both Android and iOS devices.