The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a recall for Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to the presence of a banned chemical impurity.
The affected product contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as Lilial, which poses serious health risks, including reproductive harm and potential effects on unborn children.
In an official statement released on Monday, NAFDAC highlighted that the Dove soap violates the Cosmetic Products Regulation as it contains BMHCA, a substance that has been prohibited due to its potential to cause reproductive issues and skin sensitization.
The agency noted that BMHCA can trigger allergic reactions among users and has been banned by several regulatory authorities in the European Union.
“The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), which is prohibited due to its risks of reproductive harm, danger to unborn children, and potential for causing skin sensitization,” the statement read.
NAFDAC also mentioned that other Dove products have faced similar recalls or bans in various countries due to the presence of BMHCA.
These products include Derma Spa Goodness, Men Care, Men Care+ Sensitive Shield, and others listed in the notice.
The agency has advised the public to be cautious and vigilant within the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the affected products.
NAFDAC emphasized that the importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list, and these products are not listed in the NAFDAC database.
“Importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the above-mentioned products. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the agency urged.