Beware: Fake Cowbell “Our Milk” hits Nigerian shops as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) raised an alarm on Friday. The agency confirmed that counterfeit 12g sachets of the popular milk brand are in circulation across the country.
According to NAFDAC, the discovery came after Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authorised manufacturer of Cowbell “Our Milk,” reported fake versions of its product in the market. These counterfeit sachets copy the brand name, packaging design, registration number, and trademark.
NAFDAC explained that “the counterfeit packaging design was last used for production in September 2023” and stressed that the current fake products are not manufactured or distributed by Promasidor.
How to Identify Fake Cowbell “Our Milk”
The agency listed key differences between the genuine product and the fake Cowbell sachets. The real Cowbell “Our Milk” is creamy, carries the new “Our Creamy Goodness” artwork, has laser-printed batch details, and proper coding in the designated coding area. Its sealing and cutting are automated for uniformity.
On the other hand, the counterfeit sachets use the outdated “Our Milk” artwork, carry ink-printed batch details instead of laser printing, and show poorly done sealing and cutting. Coding is also misplaced.
NAFDAC warned that the contents of these fake sachets “do not seem like milk” and may contain harmful substances.
Health Risks of Fake Cowbell “Our Milk”
The agency stressed that consuming counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” presents serious health dangers. Such products may contain toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that fail food safety standards.
NAFDAC said: “Consumption of counterfeit milk can result in foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or even death in severe cases. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.”
Action and Public Appeal
To curb the spread, NAFDAC directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to carry out surveillance and mop up counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” sachets across Nigeria.
The agency also urged distributors, retailers, and consumers to remain vigilant in the supply chain. All food products, it warned, must be purchased only from authorised manufacturers or licensed suppliers.
Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any suspicious products through NAFDAC hotlines, emails, or its official website.
Consumers Must Stay Alert
As NAFDAC intensifies its crackdown, the responsibility also falls on consumers to be careful about what they buy. Genuine Cowbell “Our Milk” is still safe and available, but the fake versions are a clear danger to public health.
