The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has directed the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap, 100g, with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany.
In a statement on its website, NAFDAC stated that the soap contains a harmful chemical impurity, Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as Lilial, which is banned in cosmetic products for its potential health risks.
Dove is an American personal care brand owned by Unilever, a British consumer goods company. The products are sold in more than 150 countries and are offered for women, men, babies and kids.
Vincent Lamberti (c. 1927/28 – March 21, 2014) was an American chemist and inventor, who held 118 granted patents, and is best known as the inventor of Dove soap.
NAFDAC explained that the chemical, commonly found in perfumes, has been linked to reproductive harm, including risks to unborn children, and may cause skin sensitisation, leading to allergic reactions.
“The presence of Butylphenyl Methylpropional in the product violates the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as it poses serious health concerns, BMHCA is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential to cause reproductive harm and skin sensitisation. It has been banned in several countries, including across the EU,” they said.
The agency also pointed out that this particular batch of Dove soap and several other Dove cosmetic products, such as Derma Spa Goodness and Men Care, have been recalled or banned in various countries for the same reason.
The agency pointed out that the products are not in its database and reiterated the restriction on importing soaps into Nigeria.
NAFDAC enjoined consumers who have purchased the soap to discontinue use immediately and submit any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
