NAFDAC recalls Dove soap after detecting harmful chemical impurity

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to the detection of a harmful chemical impurity.

NAFDAC reported that the soap violates the Cosmetic Products Regulation because it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as Lilial.

This chemical is associated with serious health risks, including reproductive harm and potential effects on unborn children.

In a statement released on its website on Monday, NAFDAC detailed the risks associated with BMHCA, noting that it has been banned in cosmetics due to its potential to cause reproductive issues and skin sensitization, which can trigger allergic reactions in users.

The statement read, “NAFDAC is alerting the public about the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to chemical impurity.

“The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), which is prohibited due to its risks of reproductive harm, danger to unborn children, and potential for causing skin sensitization. Several regulatory authorities in the EU have already banned its marketing.”

Other Dove products that have faced similar recalls or bans in various countries due to BMHCA include Derma Spa Goodness, Men Care, Men Care+ Sensitive Shield, Natural Touch, Nourishing Body Care Light Hydro, Pampering Body Lotion, Go Fresh, Talco con Crema, Go Fresh Pera, Extra Fresh, Goodness3 Skincare Ritual, Invisible Dry Antiperspirant Spray, and Go Fresh Revitalize Nourishing Shower Gel.

NAFDAC advised the public to be cautious and vigilant within the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the affected products.

The agency emphasized that, according to Nigerian regulations, the importation of soaps is prohibited and these products are not listed in the NAFDAC database.

The statement urged, “Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list.

“Beyond the import restrictions, soaps and cosmetics are part of items ineligible for foreign exchange for import in Nigeria. These products are also not available in the NAFDAC database.

“Importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the above-mentioned products.

“Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”