Beiersdorf, the German multinational known for its NIVEA Black & White Invisible Roll-on deodorant, has responded to a safety alert issued by Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The agency had flagged the product due to concerns over its safety, stating that European authorities had recalled it because it allegedly contains 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl propionaldehyde (BMHCA), a chemical banned in cosmetics due to its potential to cause skin irritation and reproductive health issues.
In its statement, Beiersdorf clarified that the NIVEA deodorant in question has been discontinued since February 2022 and has not been sold or advertised in Nigeria or any other market. The company emphasized that its decision to cease production of the product predates the ban on BMHCA and assured that all its products are fully compliant with EU cosmetic regulations.
NAFDAC had raised concerns about the safety of BMHCA, citing its risks, including skin irritation and potential harm to unborn children. Beiersdorf’s clarification aims to alleviate any public concerns regarding the safety of its products in Nigeria following the agency’s alert.
