The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) recently issued a warning to Nigerians about the recall of a specific batch of Nivea Black & White Invisible Roll-On deodorant, 50ml.
This product, marked “48H Protection in African Climate” and identified by batch number 93529610, has been recalled due to potential health risks associated with a specific chemical compound.
Why Was the Nivea Product Recalled?
The recall, initiated by the European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX), was triggered due to the presence of a chemical known as 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, or BMHCA. This compound, commonly known as Lilial, is prohibited in cosmetic products under EU regulations because of its potential health hazards. NAFDAC has echoed RAPEX’s caution, urging Nigerians to cease using this specific Nivea deodorant and remove it from supply chains.
In their statement, NAFDAC highlighted the severe consequences associated with the chemical, urging “importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain.”
What is BMHCA, and Why is It Dangerous?
BMHCA (2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde) is an aromatic aldehyde, used in some consumer goods for its floral fragrance. However, its presence in cosmetics has come under scrutiny due to studies indicating that it may cause reproductive toxicity.
This means it has the potential to harm the reproductive system and may impair fetal development, posing a serious risk to pregnant women and unborn children.
“BMHCA has been shown to cause harm to the reproductive system, impair the health of an unborn child, and lead to skin irritation and burns,” the statement explains. The chemical has also been associated with contact dermatitis, a condition that can cause skin redness, itching, and blistering upon exposure. These risks make BMHCA unsuitable for products that come into direct contact with skin, as is the case with deodorants.
It’s not the first time NAFDAC is recalling products that contain BMHCA. In August this year, the food agency recalled Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08 for containing the harmful chemical.
Also, early in April, NAFDAC informed the Nigerian public of the ban on the sale of Dex Luxury Bar Soap (No 6 mystic flower) by the European Union (EU) for containing BMHCA.
What Should Consumers and Businesses Do?
Given the recall, NAFDAC advises that Nigerians who possess this specific Nivea product should immediately “discontinue the sale or use” of the affected batch. Additionally, consumers and business owners in possession of this product should submit their stock to the nearest NAFDAC office for proper disposal.
“Members of the public in possession of the affected batch of product should discontinue the sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the statement stated.
The agency has also asked healthcare professionals and users to report any adverse reactions linked to the product. Reporting can be done through the agency’s pharmacovigilance email, the E-reporting platform on its website, or via the Med-safety application available on Android and iOS devices.