Counterfeit Cetaphil Cleanser Seized in Pune; FDA Files FIR
Pune, 24th June 2026: A purportedly counterfeit batch of a popular skincare product was seized from a retailer in Pune’s Shivajinagar area during a crackdown by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on spurious medicines and cosmetic products.
The action was part of the FDA’s statewide drive against the sale of counterfeit and unauthorised pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
During an inspection, FDA officials collected samples of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (118 ml), a product marketed by Galderma India Pvt Ltd and manufactured by Encube Ethicals Pvt Ltd. While laboratory tests found the sample to meet prescribed quality parameters, a detailed examination revealed several discrepancies in packaging, labelling, printing, security features and overall appearance when compared with the genuine product.
Subsequent verification by the manufacturer and marketing company confirmed that the seized stock did not originate from their authorised production process and was therefore classified as a spurious cosmetic product, officials said.
Following the findings, FDA officials seized the stock, valued at Rs 5,508, from a seller in Shivajinagar on June 22 under provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Based on the evidence gathered during the investigation, an FIR has been registered at Chatushrungi police station. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the source and distribution network of the counterfeit product.
