NAFDAC alerts Nigerians over suspected counterfeit toothpaste

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the presence of a suspected counterfeit toothpaste called ORACIRE+ Toothpaste. This product is being sold in the country, disguised as the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste. The alert was prompted by a formal complaint and market intelligence suggesting the widespread distribution of the potentially fraudulent item.

Upon conducting market surveillance at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos, NAFDAC discovered that the counterfeit product closely matches the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste in terms of packaging design and overall appearance. This similarity makes it challenging for consumers to differentiate between the two. NAFDAC has emphasized that counterfeit personal care products may not adhere to the required quality and safety standards, potentially endangering the health of those who use them.

The agency has not yet verified the origin, composition, safety, and quality of the suspected counterfeit toothpaste. In response to this threat, NAFDAC has launched surveillance activities to determine the availability and distribution of the counterfeit toothpaste across the country. All zonal directors and state coordinators have been directed to investigate the presence of the product in their respective regions and take necessary regulatory actions.

The agency is urging both consumers and healthcare providers to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of the sale of the suspected counterfeit ORACIRE+ Toothpaste. Consumers and healthcare providers can report their observations to the nearest NAFDAC office, by calling the designated number, or by sending an email to the agency's email address.