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The NAFDAC SMA Gold alert has raised concerns among healthcare providers, caregivers, and the public following the discovery of illegally altered manufacturing and expiry dates on SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula (900g) sold in Kaduna State. The warning was issued by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control after investigations revealed evidence of product tampering that may pose health risks to infants.
The agency confirmed that the integrity of the affected product had been compromised due to unauthorized changes to its shelf life, describing the situation as a significant public health concern.
Details of the NAFDAC SMA Gold Alert
According to the regulatory authority, the affected SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula (900g) was found with inconsistent manufacturing and expiry dates. The agency shared images showing the original production date as May 28, 2023, with an expiry date of May 28, 2025. However, these details had been covered with a carbon layer that displayed a different manufacturing date of January 20, 2025, and an extended expiry date of January 20, 2027.
Physical examination of the product confirmed that the dates printed on the top sticker did not match the original markings underneath. This discrepancy indicated that the product had been revalidated and tampered with without proper regulatory approval.
NAFDAC emphasized that altering a product’s manufacturing or expiry date is a serious violation of safety standards and can affect the quality and safety of food products, particularly those intended for infants.
Health Concerns Linked to the Product
The NAFDAC SMA Gold alert followed a reported health incident involving a four month old baby who was fed the suspected product. The infant reportedly developed gastrointestinal distress after consuming the formula, prompting further investigation by the regulatory agency.
While the agency did not provide detailed medical findings, it noted that the case raised serious concerns about the safety of the altered product. Infant formula plays a critical role in early nutrition, and any compromise in its quality can pose health risks to vulnerable babies.
SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula is described as a nutritionally complete, whey dominant formula designed to mirror the nutritional composition of breast milk. It is specifically formulated for babies from birth to six months, making strict compliance with safety standards essential.
Why Shelf Life Tampering Is Dangerous
NAFDAC explained that product shelf life is determined through scientific testing to ensure safety, nutritional value, and effectiveness within a specific period. Any unauthorized extension of a product’s expiry date can lead to the following risks:
Reduced Nutritional Quality
Expired or compromised infant formula may lose essential nutrients needed for a baby’s growth and development.
Microbial Contamination
Products stored beyond their approved shelf life may become susceptible to bacterial growth, increasing the risk of illness.
Public Health Threat
Tampering with regulated products undermines consumer safety and weakens trust in food control systems.
The agency stressed that compliance with regulatory guidelines is essential to protect public health and prevent exposure to unsafe products.
Regulatory Response and Public Advisory
As part of the NAFDAC SMA Gold alert, the agency urged healthcare providers, distributors, retailers, and caregivers to remain vigilant when purchasing or using infant formula products. Consumers are advised to carefully inspect product packaging, verify manufacturing and expiry dates, and report any suspicious items to the appropriate authorities.
NAFDAC also emphasized that extending the shelf life of regulated products without official approval violates national safety regulations and can result in enforcement actions.
The agency continues to monitor the situation and encourages members of the public to prioritize safety by purchasing products only from reliable and authorized sources.
Importance of Consumer Awareness
The incident highlights the need for increased awareness regarding product authenticity and safety checks, particularly for essential items such as infant nutrition products. Caregivers are encouraged to:
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Check product packaging for signs of tampering
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Compare printed dates for consistency
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Avoid products with altered labels or unusual markings
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Seek medical advice if adverse reactions occur after consumption
Public vigilance plays a key role in preventing the circulation of compromised products in the market.
Conclusion
The NAFDAC SMA Gold alert underscores the importance of strict regulatory compliance and consumer awareness in safeguarding public health. The discovery of revalidated SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula in Kaduna State serves as a reminder that unauthorized alterations to regulated products can pose serious risks, especially to infants who rely on safe and nutritious feeding options.
Authorities continue to monitor the distribution of the affected product while advising Nigerians to remain cautious and report any suspected cases of product tampering.
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