NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Suspected Counterfeit Toothpaste

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the circulation of a suspected counterfeit toothpaste being marketed as the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste.

The agency identified the suspected counterfeit product as ORACIRE+ Toothpaste, saying its packaging and appearance closely resemble those of the registered product.

In a statement, NAFDAC said the alert followed a formal complaint and market intelligence indicating that the suspected counterfeit toothpaste was being widely distributed in Nigeria.

The agency said its surveillance team discovered the product during a market inspection at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos.

According to NAFDAC, the similarity between the two products could make it difficult for consumers to distinguish the suspected counterfeit from the genuine ORACARE+ Toothpaste.

It warned that the safety and quality of the suspected product had not been verified, while its origin and composition also remained unestablished.

“Counterfeit personal care products may not meet established quality and safety standards and could pose health risks to consumers,” the agency warned.

NAFDAC said it had commenced surveillance operations to establish the extent of the product’s circulation and identify its distribution network across the country.

The agency added that its zonal directors and state coordinators had been directed to investigate the presence and distribution of the suspected counterfeit product in their respective areas and take appropriate regulatory action.

NAFDAC urged consumers and healthcare providers to remain vigilant and report any suspected sale or distribution of the product to the relevant authorities.