The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians to the circulation of suspected counterfeit ORACIRE+ toothpaste, warning consumers and retailers to be cautious when purchasing the product.
The agency issued the warning in Public Alert No. 041/2026 following a formal complaint and market intelligence indicating that the suspected counterfeit product was being distributed in Nigeria under the guise of the registered ORACARE+ toothpaste.
NAFDAC urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing toothpaste from questionable sources. Consumers and retailers who encounter the suspected product are expected to report it to the regulatory agency to assist ongoing surveillance and enforcement efforts.
The alert is important because counterfeit oral-care products may not meet the required safety and quality standards. Products that imitate registered brands can also make it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine items from potentially unsafe alternatives.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the circulation of counterfeit and substandard consumer products in Nigerian markets. Recent reports have highlighted concerns involving fake food, medicines, cosmetics and other regulated products, prompting calls for stronger monitoring and enforcement.
NAFDAC has continued to advise Nigerians to check product packaging and regulatory information before purchasing regulated products. Consumers are also encouraged to buy from reputable outlets and remain cautious of products with suspicious labelling, packaging or unusually low prices.
The agency’s warning underscores the importance of effective post-market surveillance in protecting public health. Counterfeit products can undermine legitimate manufacturers while exposing consumers to products whose ingredients, manufacturing conditions and quality may not have been verified by regulatory authorities.
NAFDAC, established to regulate food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and other regulated products, has repeatedly issued public alerts over suspected counterfeit and unregistered products.
As investigations and market surveillance continue, Nigerians are advised to exercise caution and report suspected counterfeit toothpaste or other regulated products to NAFDAC. The agency’s latest alert reinforces the need for consumers to verify products before use and for businesses to source goods through legitimate supply channels.
