CDSCO flags Pakistani whitening creams Goree, Chandni over excessive heavy metals; warns consumers against use

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a public health alert against two unauthorised Pakistan-made cosmetic products being sold in India, warning consumers not to purchase or use them after tests found excessive levels of heavy metals.

The cosmetics division of CDSCO identified Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream, both labelled as "Made in Pakistan", in a public notice dated September 8. The regulator said the products had not been issued the required registration certificate for import and sale in India.

According to CDSCO, testing and analysis found that the two creams contained heavy metals beyond specified limits, which may pose health risks, including toxic effects. The regulator has advised consumers not to buy the products and not to use them if they have already been purchased.

CDSCO has also warned establishments and individuals against selling, distributing or advertising the identified products. State and Union Territory Drugs Controllers, along with CDSCO's zone, sub-zone and port offices, have been asked to ensure that the unauthorised cosmetics are not sold in their jurisdictions.

The regulator said cosmetics manufactured for sale and distribution in India require a licence from the State Licensing Authority, while imported cosmetics must be registered with the Central Licensing Authority under the applicable rules.

CDSCO has urged consumers to purchase only authorised cosmetic products and check for details including the manufacturing licence number, manufacturer's information, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates, and the registration number for imported cosmetics.

The regulator's notice does not specify which particular heavy metals were detected in the two creams or provide their measured concentrations. It therefore establishes a regulatory safety concern but does not specify individual health effects caused by the products.

The alert comes amid concerns over the availability of unauthorised cosmetics in the Indian market. CDSCO has asked consumers to avoid the two identified products and similarly named products if already purchased.