counterfite cowbell milk in cricuation photo credit @NAFDAC
On Friday, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a public warning about the circulation of fake Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet milk in Nigeria.
The notice, published on NAFDAC’s official website, revealed that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd—the authorised manufacturer and marketing rights holder of Cowbell “Our Milk”—alerted the agency to the discovery of counterfeit products closely imitating the genuine brand. These fake products reportedly copied the brand name, packaging design, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark without authorisation.
According to NAFDAC, Promasidor confirmed that the counterfeit products are not linked to the company in any way. The firm clarified that the packaging design now being used by counterfeiters was last legitimately produced in September 2023.
The original and genuine product
To help consumers distinguish between authentic and fake Cowbell “Our Milk” sachets, NAFDAC outlined clear differences:
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Genuine product:
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The milk inside has a creamy texture.
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Packaging uses the updated PNG design labeled “Our Creamy Goodness.”
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Batch numbers are printed using laser technology.
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Coding is placed precisely on the designated coding area of the sachet.
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Sealing and cutting on vertical sides are carried out with automated machinery.
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Counterfeit product:
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The content does not resemble real milk.
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Packaging features the old PNG design with the label “Our Milk.”
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Batch details are printed with ink rather than laser printing.
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Coding is placed in an incorrect area of the sachet.
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Sealing and cutting appear to be done manually.
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| The fake Cowbell Photo credit @ NAFDAC |
The agency warned that consuming counterfeit Cowbell sachet milk poses serious dangers to public health. Such fake products may contain unsafe substances, toxic chemicals, illegal additives, or diluted ingredients that fail to meet food safety standards. Health risks include food poisoning, allergic reactions, organ damage, and in severe cases, death. Vulnerable groups such as infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly face the highest risk.
In response, NAFDAC directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachets from circulation in their respective areas. The agency also urged distributors, retailers, and consumers to be vigilant within the supply chain and avoid selling or purchasing counterfeit milk. It advised buyers to only source food products from authorised and licensed suppliers, while carefully checking both the authenticity and physical condition of such items.
Furthermore, NAFDAC appealed to healthcare professionals and members of the public to report any suspected cases of counterfeit or substandard food products. Reports can be made to the nearest NAFDAC office, via the toll-free line 0800-162-3322, or by emailing sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. In addition, adverse reactions or side effects caused by consuming counterfeit food can also be reported either to NAFDAC offices, through the agency’s e-reporting platforms on its website (www.nafdac.gov.ng), or via email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.
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