NAFDAC issues warning on suspected revalidated SMA Gold Infant Formula in Kaduna
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an urgent alert to Nigerians regarding a suspected revalidated batch of SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula (900 grams) circulating in Kaduna State, raising concerns over infant health and safety.
The regulatory body, in a statement posted on its official X account on Sunday, revealed that the product under scrutiny exhibited altered expiry dates.
The suspicion arose after a four-month-old infant developed gastrointestinal distress following consumption of the formula.
NAFDAC highlighted the potential risks associated with such tampering, including acute gastroenteritis, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, secondary infections in immunocompromised infants, and even fatal outcomes if contaminated with pathogenic bacteria.
Physical inspection of the product confirmed signs of date alteration.
“The top preprinted sticker displayed manufacturing and expiry dates inconsistent with the original print beneath, confirming suspicions of revalidation and tampering,” the agency said.
NAFDAC described SMA Gold Infant Formula as a nutritionally complete, whey-dominant formula designed to replicate the nutritional profile of breast milk for babies from birth to six months.
The agency emphasized that the integrity and safety of the product depend on strict compliance with regulatory standards.
Any unauthorised alteration or extension of the shelf life poses significant public health risks.
The revalidated batch in question is manufactured by Nestlé, bearing batch number 22939510A1206 07:35, with a revalidated manufacture date of January 20, 2025, and an expiry date of January 20, 2027.
Investigation by NAFDAC revealed the original manufacturing date to be May 28, 2023, and the original expiry date May 28, 2025, registered under NAFDAC Reg. No B1-2783.
In a firm warning, NAFDAC reminded distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers to exercise vigilance throughout the supply chain to prevent the sale or use of compromised infant formula.
The agency further advised that packaged foods and medical products be sourced only from authorized suppliers, and that their authenticity and physical condition be carefully inspected before purchase.
All zonal directors and state coordinators of NAFDAC have been directed to intensify surveillance and remove any suspect SMA Gold formula from circulation.
Consumers and healthcare providers are urged to report any suspicions of substandard or falsified products to the nearest NAFDAC office, via the toll-free line 0800-162-3322, or through email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
“NAFDAC remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue rigorous monitoring to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of all regulated products in Nigeria,” the agency concluded.
