The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), dismissed claims that it approved a herbal product, Lung Detox Tea, or Lungitox (Smokers Pride), which falsely suggests it can make smoking safe.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, NAFDAC called the claims circulating in a social media video “false and unfounded,” warning that such misinformation poses a significant risk to public health.
The agency urged Nigerians to disregard the video and its assertions.
NAFDAC clarified that the product’s promoters had applied for registration, but the application was rejected because the claims lacked scientific validation and posed potential health risks.
“The attention of NAFDAC has been drawn to a misleading video circulating on social media, alleging that NAFDAC approved the registration of a herbal product claiming that ‘smoking is healthy’ when used with their product.
NAFDAC wishes to categorically state that this claim is false and completely unfounded,” the statement read.
The agency emphasized that Lung Detox Tea, Lungitox, or any similar product is “not registered by NAFDAC”.
“The unscrupulous individual behind this product had applied for registration, but the application was outrightly rejected due to the unsubstantiated and dangerous claim that smoking could be made ‘healthy’ by consuming the product,” the statement continued.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to public safety, stating that it would never approve any product that lacks scientific evidence of efficacy and safety.
“As a scientific and professional agency, NAFDAC will never permit the importation, exportation, manufacture, advertisement, distribution, sale, or use of products with claims that do not have any scientific basis.
Herbal products and other related products are not allowed to make therapeutic claims unless scientifically validated through proper clinical trial studies,” the statement added.
NAFDAC also called on the public to report any suspicious claims or products through its official channels, reaffirming its mandate to protect public health by ensuring that only safe and effective products reach consumers.
The agency concluded by condemning any attempt to mislead the public with false claims and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against such misinformation.
