NAFDAC Alerts Consumers: Popular Nivea Deodorant Recalled over Health Risks

Segun Atanda/

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert following a recall of Nivea’s BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on deodorant, 50ml, marked “48H Protection in African Climate.”

This recall, initiated by the European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX), highlights health risks associated with the product’s batch number 93529610.

The affected deodorant has been found to contain 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), a chemical banned in cosmetics due to its potential for reproductive toxicity, skin irritation, and other adverse effects.

“This compound has been associated with serious health hazards, including risks to reproductive health and potential harm to unborn children,” warned NAFDAC in a statement on its X handle.

NAFDAC has advised importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise “extreme caution and vigilance” to prevent the sale or use of the affected product. Those in possession of the product are urged to discontinue its use and submit any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse effects linked to the product through NAFDAC’s pharmacovigilance email (pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng), online platforms at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or the Med-safety app, available on Android and iOS.

“This is a proactive measure to protect public health,” NAFDAC stressed, calling on the public to be vigilant and take swift action in the interest of consumer safety.