NAFDAC Warns on Fake Cerelac in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has raised an alert over the circulation of suspected counterfeit Cerelac Mixed Fruits and Wheat products in Lagos.

The agency said the alert followed a complaint from Nestlé Nigeria Plc regarding the sale of the product, which is widely used as infant cereal.

Preliminary findings showed that the product emitted an unusual odour suggestive of contamination and had expired, despite displaying a future expiry date of October 2026, indicating possible tampering.

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“On investigation, the Post Marketing Surveillance (PMS) Directorate Officers in Lagos State conducted a surveillance visit at Maxland Shopping Center, 193 Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, where the product was purchased by the complainant. The suspected counterfeit and unregistered CERELAC Mixed Fruits and Wheat were found on sale at the premises and subsequently mopped up by the PMS officers,” the agency stated.

NAFDAC identified a key difference in date markings, noting that the counterfeit product uses a hyphen (-) while the genuine version uses a slash (/).

The agency warned that fake infant products may lack essential nutrients and could contain harmful substances, posing serious health risks to infants.

It has directed officials nationwide to intensify surveillance and remove the product from circulation, while urging distributors, retailers, and caregivers to source only from authorised suppliers.

Consumers and healthcare providers have also been advised to report any suspected counterfeit products through official channels.