FDA recalls adulterated Choice Irish Cream drink found to contain Sildenafil

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered the recall of Choice Irish Cream Flavoured Drink after tests revealed it contained Sildenafil, a prescription drug used to treat erectile dysfunction.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the FDA said the beverage, manufactured by 1 Africa Industries Limited, had been adulterated with Sildenafil Citrate, a Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that poses serious health risks when consumed without medical supervision.

The Authority described the discovery as alarming, noting that the undeclared presence of Sildenafil in a food product could have fatal consequences. “The presence of Sildenafil in a food product poses serious health and safety risks, particularly because it is undeclared and can dangerously interact with medications like nitroglycerin, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure that may result in heart attack or stroke,” the FDA said.

It explained that Choice Irish Cream Flavoured Drink is registered only as an alcoholic beverage and should not contain any pharmaceutical ingredient. “This adulteration is in violation of Section 100 (4) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851),” the Authority warned.

Beyond drug interactions, the FDA also cautioned that prolonged use of Sildenafil could cause long-term health problems, including loss of vision or hearing, painful and prolonged erections, and psychological dependence.

“The public is therefore strongly advised to refrain from purchasing or consuming this product,” the statement emphasized.

The FDA indicated that it was collaborating with 1 Africa Industries Limited to remove all affected products from the market for safe disposal while appropriate regulatory actions were being taken.

“The Authority urges consumers, retailers, distributors, and the general public to comply with this directive and report anyone offering Choice Irish Cream Flavoured Drink for sale to the nearest FDA office,” it added.

The statement assured of the authority’s commitment to protecting public health, saying, “The FDA remains fully committed to ensuring that all regulated products, including alcoholic beverages, are safe, of good quality, and properly manufactured.”