NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Suspected Revalidated SMA Gold Infant Formula in Kaduna |LAGOS EYE NEWS

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued Public Alert warning healthcare providers, caregivers and the general public about a suspected revalidated batch of SMA Gold First Infant Milk Formula (900g) discovered on sale in Kaduna State.

According to the agency, the alert follows a report that the product allegedly caused gastrointestinal distress in a four-month-old infant after consumption.

NAFDAC disclosed that physical examination of the complaint sample revealed clear signs of date tampering. Investigations showed that the manufacturing and expiry dates printed on the top pre-printed sticker were inconsistent with the originally printed dates underneath, confirming suspicions of revalidation and product manipulation.

SMA Gold Infant Formula is described as a nutritionally complete, whey-dominant formula designed to replicate the nutritional profile of breast milk for infants from birth to six months.The agency emphasized that the product’s safety and quality depend strictly on adherence to regulatory standards.

The agency warned that altering or extending a product’s shelf life without regulatory approval constitutes a serious violation with significant public health implications.

NAFDAC highlighted several dangers associated with date revalidation of infant formula, including product adulteration, consumer deception, and potential threats to infant health.

Expired infant formula, the agency said, may harbor microbial contamination and suffer nutrient degradation, posing grave risks to infants whose immune systems are still developing. Reported and potential health consequences include acute gastroenteritis requiring hospitalization, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition due to reduced nutritional value, secondary infections in immunocompromised infants, and in severe cases, possible fatal outcomes if contaminated with harmful bacteria.

Infant formula serves as the primary source of nutrition for many babies under six months, making product integrity critical to safeguarding public health.

NAFDAC urged healthcare professionals and consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected sale of substandard or falsified regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Adverse events or side effects linked to the implicated product should be reported through NAFDAC’s e-reporting platforms available on its official website.

The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that regulated products in circulation meet established safety and quality standards.