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

NAFDAC indicated that the product breaches the Cosmetic Products Regulation by containing Butylphenyl Methylpropional, commonly referred to as Lilial, a substance linked to significant health hazards.

In a statement released on its website on Monday, the agency noted that BMHCA is prohibited in cosmetic items as it poses risks to the reproductive system and may adversely affect the health of unborn children.

Furthermore, the chemical has been associated with skin sensitization, which can lead to allergic reactions in certain individuals.

The statement emphasized, “The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is notifying the public regarding the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g), batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to the presence of a 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.”

Several Dove cosmetic products have been recalled or banned in various countries due to the detection of BMHCA. These products 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, Go Fresh Revitalize nourishing shower gel, and Caring hand wash.

NAFDAC has advised the public to remain cautious and vigilant throughout the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of these items.

It said, “Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list. Beyond the import restrictions soaps and cosmetics are parts of the items ineligible for foreign exchange to 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.”

NAFDAC has also encouraged health professionals to report any adverse events associated with the use of regulated products to their nearest office.

The statement added, “Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events experienced with the use of regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office, via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, E-reporting platforms available at www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application for download on android and IOS stores.”