Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jul 5: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public alert against the use of three cosmetic products after laboratory analysis detected mercury and lead levels far exceeding the prescribed safety limits, raising concerns over potential health hazards.
The regulator identified Goree Beauty Cream, Face Fresh Gold (Beauty Cream + Beauty Serum) and Golden Star Beauty Cream as substandard products, stating that the presence of excessive heavy metals makes them unsafe for consumer use.
According to the FDA, prolonged exposure to cosmetics containing high concentrations of mercury and lead can lead to serious health complications, including damage to the kidneys, nervous system and skin. Consumers have been strongly advised to stop using, buying or distributing the products with immediate effect.
The investigation also uncovered significant violations of labelling norms. Officials said the products lacked mandatory information such as the manufacturer's name and address, batch number, manufacturing date and expiry date, casting doubts on their authenticity, traceability and overall safety.
To prevent further circulation, the FDA has directed retailers, wholesalers, distributors and e-commerce platforms across Maharashtra to immediately remove the three products from sale. Businesses have also been instructed to submit reports detailing the quantity of products withdrawn from the market and the stock still in their possession.
The regulator has urged consumers to purchase cosmetics only from authorised sellers and to carefully examine product labels to ensure they contain all legally required information before making a purchase.
Reiterating its commitment to consumer safety, the FDA appealed to the public to avoid unverified or improperly labelled cosmetic products and to report any suspicious beauty products available in the market to the authorities.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration, functioning under the state's Medical Education and Drugs Department, is responsible for regulating the safety and quality of food, medicines and cosmetics. It enforces key public health laws, including the Food Safety and Standards Act, and carries out inspections, surveillance and regulatory action to ensure compliance with prescribed standards.