The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has alerted Nigerians to the circulation of a suspected counterfeit toothpaste, ORACIRE+ Toothpaste, being distributed in the country under the guise of the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste.
The agency said the alert followed a formal complaint and a market intelligence report on the widespread distribution of the suspected counterfeit product.
According to NAFDAC, market surveillance carried out at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos, found that the suspected counterfeit product closely resembles the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste in its packaging design and overall presentation.
The similarity, the agency said, makes it difficult for consumers to distinguish the suspected counterfeit product from the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste.
“Counterfeit personal care products may not meet established quality and safety standards and could pose health risks to consumers,” the agency warned.
The agency said the origin, composition, safety and quality of the suspected counterfeit product have not been verified.
NAFDAC has therefore initiated surveillance activities to establish the availability and distribution of the suspected counterfeit toothpaste.
It said all zonal directors and state coordinators had been instructed to investigate the availability and distribution of the product in their respective areas and take appropriate regulatory action.
The agency also urged consumers and healthcare providers to remain vigilant and report any suspicion of the sale of suspected counterfeit ORACIRE+ Toothpaste.
Reports can be made at the nearest NAFDAC office, by calling the designated number or sending an email to the agency’s email.