In a decisive move to safeguard public health, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) announced on Thursday an immediate ban on the sale and distribution of Dex Luxury bar soap across Nigeria. The agency cited serious health concerns due to the presence of Butyphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA) in the soap's ingredients, a substance known for its potential to harm the reproductive system and unborn children, as well as cause skin sensitization.
The announcement, disseminated through NAFDAC's official X handle on April 11, underscores the agency's commitment to enforcing stringent safety standards. The decision aligns with a precedent set by the European Union (EU), which had previously prohibited the sale of the product owing to the same health risks associated with BMHCA content.
NAFDAC's advisory emphasized that Dex Luxury bar soap was not listed in its database of approved products, raising concerns over its unregulated entry and distribution within the country. The agency's statement serves as a caution to importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers, urging them to remain vigilant within the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the banned product.
The agency's swift action to ban the soap highlights the critical oversight role NAFDAC plays in ensuring that all food, drug, and cosmetic products available to Nigerian consumers meet established safety and health standards. This proactive measure is part of NAFDAC's broader mandate to protect public health by preventing the sale and use of potentially harmful products.
As the ban takes effect immediately, NAFDAC encourages the public to report any activity related to the importation, distribution, or sale of Dex Luxury bar soap to the authorities. The agency reiterates its dedication to upholding the highest standards of public health safety and urges cooperation from all stakeholders in the supply chain to ensure compliance with this ban.
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