Health alert: Heavy‑metal contaminated creams pulled from Maharashtra market

A health warning has been issued by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration after tests confirmed that three widely sold beauty creams contain dangerous concentrations of mercury and lead. The products identified – Gori Beauty Cream, Face Fresh Gold (beauty cream and serum blend), and Golden Star Beauty Cream – are now classified as non‑standard for public consumption.

The inspection also revealed that the containers lack essential labeling information, including the manufacturer's name and address, batch number, date of manufacture and expiry date. Such omissions undermine consumer safety and breach statutory labeling norms.

Authorities have asked the public to cease purchasing, applying, or distributing these creams immediately. Medical professionals caution that dermal exposure to these metals can result in allergic reactions, systemic toxicity, and long‑term organ damage.

The FDA has directed retailers, distributors, and e‑commerce platforms to remove the items from all sales channels, cease any further storage, and begin a comprehensive recall. Stockists are required to provide a full inventory list to the local FDA office and cooperate in retrieving the products already in circulation.

Failure to follow the directive may lead to legal action under the state’s drug and cosmetics regulations. Consumers who encounter the mentioned creams in shops or online are urged to report the incident via toll‑free number 1800‑222‑365 or the official email address.

The department stresses that purchasing cosmetics only from verified, reputable vendors and checking for complete product information are critical steps to safeguard health.