The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning following a recent ban by the European Union (EU) on the marketing and sale of Dove Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorant in Brussels, Belgium, due to contamination with a prohibited substance.
According to Public Alert No. 018/2025, the banned products were found to contain Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional, is a synthetic scent ingredient; associated with allergies and contact dermatitis.
This chemical is banned in cosmetic products within the EU due to its potential to harm the reproductive system, pose health risks to unborn children, and cause skin sensitization.
NAFDAC emphasized that the importation of soaps is already prohibited in Nigeria, as listed in the country’s import prohibition and restricted items.
Additionally, cosmetic products, including soaps, are among the items ineligible for foreign exchange for importation into Nigeria.
Investigations revealed that the implicated Dove products are not listed in the NAFDAC database, further raising concerns about their safety and authenticity in the Nigerian market.
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NAFDAC is urging importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise extreme caution and vigilance to prevent the importation, sale, or use of these potentially harmful products.
The agency advised those in possession of the affected items to discontinue use immediately and submit any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Consumers and healthcare professionals are also encouraged to report any adverse effects experienced from regulated products to NAFDAC through its pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng email, the Med Safety App (available on Android and iOS), or via the e-Reporting portal at www.nafdac.gov.ng.
