Pune: FDA Seizes Counterfeit Cetaphil Product In Shivaji nagar, Cracks Down On Illegal Drug And Cosmetic Sales
Pune: FDA Seizes Counterfeit Cetaphil Product In Shivaji nagar, Cracks Down On Illegal Drug And Cosmetic Sales
Pune, June 24, 2026: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified its action against counterfeit cosmetics, illegal drug sales and misleading pharmaceutical products, uncovering major regulatory violations in Pune and Nagpur.
According to FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the department has launched a series of enforcement drives targeting the sale of fake medicines and cosmetic products across the state.
During an inspection conducted by the FDA’s Pune office, officials identified a counterfeit cosmetic product marketed under the well-known Cetaphil brand. The product, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (118 ml), Batch No. B5NA1110, was found to be spurious despite laboratory tests indicating acceptable quality standards.
Officials stated that a detailed examination revealed significant differences in packaging, labelling, printing quality, security features and other product characteristics when compared to the genuine product. The authentic cleanser is marketed by Galderma India Pvt. Ltd. and manufactured by Encube Ethicals Pvt. Ltd.
Further verification with the original manufacturer and marketing company confirmed that the seized product was not part of their authorised manufacturing process. Based on these findings, the FDA classified it as a counterfeit cosmetic product.
Consequently, FDA officials seized stock valued at Rs 5,508 from a seller operating in Pune’s Shivajinagar area on June 22 under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Following the seizure, an FIR was registered at Chatushrungi Police Station against those involved. Authorities have initiated further investigations to trace the source and distribution network of the counterfeit product.
The FDA has reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers from fake and unauthorised pharmaceutical and cosmetic products and has urged citizens to purchase such items only from authorised retailers.
