Why NAFDAC recalls Nivea roll-on deodorant

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised an alert regarding the recall of Nivea BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on Deodorant, urging Nigerians to stop using it due to the presence of a harmful chemical.

In a statement issued on Thursday (Public Alert No. 041/2024), NAFDAC confirmed that the deodorant had been flagged by the European Union’s rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products (RAPEX) in Brussels. The recall specifically affects Nivea BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on Deodorant (50ml) marked with batch number 93529610 and bar code number 42299882, produced in Germany and labeled for “48H protection in African climate.”

NAFDAC explained that the deodorant contains 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl propionaldehyde (BMHCA), also known as Butylphenyl Methylpropional or Lilial, a synthetic fragrance compound banned in cosmetics by the EU. BMHCA is recognized as a “Substance of Very High Concern” due to its risks of reproductive harm, including potential negative effects on fertility and the health of an unborn child, as well as skin irritation and allergic reactions.

The agency has urged importers, retailers, distributors, and consumers to avoid importing, selling, or using the affected batch. Consumers with this product are advised to discontinue its use immediately and to return any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.

https://x.com/NafdacAgency/status/1852026119475872068?t=dSj2Gx_XdaehfjpqJjR6Zg&s=19

NAFDAC also encouraged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse reactions to its offices via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, the agency’s E-reporting platform at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or through the Med-safety app available for download on Android and iOS.

BMHCA has come under increased scrutiny in recent years due to its health risks, with the EU banning its use in personal care products since March 2022. Many manufacturers have since reformulated products to remove BMHCA, aligning with stricter regulations and growing consumer awareness about safer ingredients.