- Counterfeit products have become a major concern, affecting a wide range of goods in Nigeria
- Many Nigerians lose their money when they purchase a fake product and also predispose themselves to health and safety risks
- Here are tips to help you identify counterfeit products in Nigeria
In Nigeria, the rise of counterfeit products in the market has become a significant issue, affecting everything from household items to medications.
Buying fake products not only wastes your hard-earned money but can also pose serious health risks. Whether it's cosmetics, electronics, or food items, knowing how to identify fake products is crucial for every consumer.
The good news is that there are telltale signs that can help you spot fakes and avoid making costly mistakes.
In this article, TheRadar brings you tips to help you identify counterfeit goods in Nigeria, so you can make informed purchasing decisions. Whether you are shopping at a market, in a supermarket, or online, these guidelines will help ensure you are buying the real thing.
Tips to identify fake products in Nigeria
1. Check for NAFDAC number
For consumables like food, drugs, and cosmetics, the NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) number is your first line of defence. All products regulated by NAFDAC are required to display this number on their packaging. Before purchasing any consumables, check for a valid NAFDAC number. If it’s missing or looks suspicious, it's safer to avoid the product. You can also verify the NAFDAC number on the NAFDAC website.
2. Scratch and verify codes on medications
For medications, there’s an extra step you can take to ensure authenticity. Many pharmaceutical products now come with scratch-off codes that you can send via SMS to a specific number provided on the packaging. After sending the code, you will receive a message confirming whether the drug is authentic or not. This process is an easy and reliable way to verify your medicine, especially with the widespread counterfeiting of drugs in the market.
3. Examine the packaging and labelling
The quality of packaging and labelling can be a significant clue in identifying fake products. Original manufacturers pay attention to packaging details like clear fonts, correct spellings, and consistent colour schemes. Poor packaging with faded print, blurry images, or spelling errors are often signs that the product is fake. Always compare the packaging of the product you’re buying to images from the brand’s official website or trusted retailers. Discrepancies in the logo, colour, or even font size can help you spot a counterfeit.
4. Look for SON certification
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) ensures that both locally produced and imported goods meet strict quality standards. SON-certified products often have the "SONCAP" (SON Conformity Assessment Program) mark on their packaging. This is particularly common with electronics, building materials, household appliances, and chemical products. If the product lacks this certification, it's safer to avoid it, as it may not meet the necessary safety or quality standards.
5. Check the print quality
Another way to spot fake products is to examine the print quality on the packaging. Legitimate brands use high-quality printing methods that produce sharp, clear images and text. Counterfeit products, on the other hand, may have packaging with poor print quality, such as blurry, faded, or inconsistent fonts and colours. Carefully inspect the print on labels, logos, and barcodes for signs of tampering or low-quality production.
6. Compare with original brand photos
One effective way to detect fake products is to compare the item you intend to buy with original brand images. Use official images from the brand’s website or social media accounts as a reference. Look for any differences in packaging, logos, or labelling. Often, fake products will have subtle differences, like incorrect logo placement or slight changes in colour schemes. Comparing the product with a known original can save you from purchasing a counterfeit.
7. Buy from reputable vendors
Purchasing from reputable vendors significantly reduces the risk of buying fake goods. Whether you are shopping online or in person, always stick to well-known retailers, authorised dealers, or official brand outlets. These vendors are more likely to sell authentic products, and they often have better return policies if any issues arise with the goods. Avoid buying from unverified street sellers or dubious online stores, as they may be dealing in fake products.
8. Scan barcodes or QR codes
Many products now come with barcodes or QR codes that allow consumers to verify authenticity. By using a barcode scanner app on your smartphone, you can scan these codes to get product information. If the scan doesn't provide any information or leads you to an unfamiliar website, it could indicate that the product is fake.
9. Pay attention to packaging quality
Original products usually come in high-quality packaging. Whether it’s a secure seal on a medicine bottle, sturdy packaging for electronics, or tamper-proof containers for cosmetics, the packaging should be intact and of good quality. If the product packaging looks damaged, tampered with, or cheaply made, this could be a sign it is fake. Always inspect the packaging for signs of poor manufacturing or improper sealing.
The rise of counterfeit products in Nigeria is a serious issue, but by following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim. Always check for NAFDAC numbers on consumables and use verification codes on medications. Pay close attention to packaging quality, print clarity, and labelling. Compared with original brand images, you should only buy from reputable vendors. Additionally, scanning barcodes or QR codes can quickly confirm a product's authenticity. By staying vigilant, you can avoid fake products and ensure you get the quality you deserve.
“Wetin kon be original for Nigeria?” NAFDAC warns against fake Milo in circulation
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, in Bauchi State, commenced a three-day exercise in markets to mop up fake Milo chocolate drinks in circulation.
The State Coordinator of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Kamai, made this known on Wednesday in Bauchi.