NAFDAC Warns of Fake Expiry Dates on Baby Formula in Kaduna

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has raised the alarm regarding a case of tampered or revalidated SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula (900g tin) discovered in circulation in Kaduna State.

In its Public Alert No. 06/2026, issued via X on Sunday, NAFDAC reported that a sample of the product, bearing batch number 22939510A1206, manufactured date 20-1-2025, and falsely extended expiry date 20-1-2027, was found on sale.

The product carries the stated NAFDAC registration number B1-2783, corresponding to legitimate SMA Gold 1 produced for the Nigerian market by Nestlé.

“The product allegedly caused gastrointestinal distress in a 4-month-old infant following consumption.

“Physical examination of the complaint product sample revealed clear indicators of date marking alteration.

“The manufacturing and expiry date on the top preprinted sticker was inconsistent with the underlying, originally printed version. This confirms the suspicion of revalidation and tampering,” NAFDAC said.

The agency described SMA Gold Infant Formula as a whey-dominant product designed to mirror the nutritional profile of breast milk for babies from birth to six months.

It stressed that any alteration of the shelf life without regulatory approval compromises product safety, potentially endangering infants’ health.

On the potential risks, NAFDAC highlighted that revalidated date markings misrepresent the quality and safety of the formula.

“False dating misleads consumers regarding product freshness and nutritional integrity.

“Expired infant formula may harbour microbial contamination and degraded nutrients, posing serious risks to vulnerable infants whose immune systems are still developing,” it added.

NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove the revalidated product from circulation.

Distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers are advised to verify products’ authenticity, obtain them only from licensed suppliers, and report any suspicious or substandard items.

Consumers and healthcare professionals are urged to report adverse events or suspected sale of the product to the nearest NAFDAC office, via the Med-Safety app (Android/iOS), through the E-reporting platform on the NAFDAC website, or by email to pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that regulated products in Nigeria meet quality, safety, and efficacy standards.