Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed as “entirely false and unfounded” social media claims that it approved a herbal product marketed as a form of “healthy smoking.”
The product, known as Lung Detox Tea or Lungitox (Smokers Pride), was widely shared online alongside assertions that it was endorsed by NAFDAC.
The agency vehemently rejected these claims, stating, “This claim is not only misleading but dangerous.” They added, “We categorically state that no such approval was granted at any time.”
NAFDAC explained that an application submitted in 2023 for an “anti-smoke and lung detox tea” was swiftly rejected at its Lagos office.
The rejection was based on the product’s failure to meet fundamental scientific standards, with the applicant unable to demonstrate sufficient evidence of safety or efficacy.
Furthermore, the regulator highlighted a promotional video featuring banned imagery of human organs and unverified health claims.
“The use of therapeutic claims for herbal products without scientific backing or clinical trials is strictly prohibited,” NAFDAC emphasized.
The agency also refuted allegations of bribery made in the video, calling them defamatory. It disclosed that its Legal Services Directorate is reviewing the matter for potential legal action.
Consumers are advised to ignore the video and report suspicious products through NAFDAC’s official channels.
As Director General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye affirmed, “NAFDAC remains firmly committed to protecting the health and safety of all Nigerians.”
