By Abigail Philip David
The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has declared that *Lung Detox Tea* or *Lungitox (Smokers Pride)*, featured in a viral video, is not registered with the agency.
Speaking at NAFDAC’s Lagos office on Tuesday, Adeyeye stated that the video circulating on social media falsely claims that the product has NAFDAC’s approval and promotes the dangerous notion that smoking can be made “healthy” when combined with the tea.
Adeyeye revealed that in 2023, an individual attempted to register an “anti-smoke and lung detox tea” at the agency’s Lagos State office. However, the application was rejected due to its unsubstantiated and hazardous claims.
She explained, *“The applicant was asked to substantiate his claim, but the product was never resubmitted for processing. NAFDAC does not and will never permit the approval, importation, advertisement, or sale of any product that lacks scientific backing or poses a risk to public health. Such claims are unscientific and dangerous.”*
Prof. Adeyeye reiterated that NAFDAC adheres strictly to its mandate of ensuring public safety under the NAFDAC Act Cap N1 LFN 2004. She emphasized that all regulated products, including food, drugs, and herbal remedies, undergo rigorous safety, quality, and efficacy evaluations before approval.
She further noted that herbal product applicants are not permitted to make therapeutic claims unless validated through clinical trials.
*“Misleading and deceptive practices that endanger public health will not be tolerated. NAFDAC is resolute in its mission to approve only scientifically substantiated products. We condemn any attempts to mislead the public with unfounded claims,”* she added.
Addressing allegations in the viral video suggesting financial inducement, Adeyeye dismissed them as baseless and defamatory. She confirmed that NAFDAC’s Legal Services Directorate is reviewing the claims to seek legal redress, warning that such accusations would not be ignored.
*“This action will serve as a deterrent to individuals or organizations attempting to malign the integrity of the agency,”* she said.
Adeyeye maintained that NAFDAC would continue to protect public health, warning against the distribution or sale of unapproved and misleading products.
