The FDA sent a warning letter to consumers about hand sanitizers. It urges Americans that hand sanitizer manufactured by Eskbiochem may be toxic.

Due to an ingredient, methanol (wood alcohol), which can be toxic if absorbed through the skin or ingested, the FDA is asking people to stay away. The FDA does recommend hand sanitizers with at least 60% ethanol if you cannot wash hands with soap and water.

If you’ve been exposed to a hand sanitizer with methanol in it, seek medical treatment immediately. According to the CDC, methanol is manufactured as a solvent, pesticide, and alternative fuel. It should not be used on skin or ingested. If you have a hand sanitizer that contains this ingredient, call hazardous waste control in your city to remove it for you.

The FDA released this list of sanitizers containing methanol:

• All-Clean Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-002-01)
• Esk Biochem Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-007-01)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-008-04)
• Lavar 70 Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-006-01)
• The Good Gel Antibacterial Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-010-10)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-005-03)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-009-01)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-003-01)
• Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-001-01)

According to the FDA, “Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death.”

Read more about handwashing and sanitizing in One Green Planet, check out these articles:

• How to Make Your Own Chemical-Free DIY Hand Sanitizer
• The Best Natural Hand Soaps
• How to Make Your Own Natural Liquid Hand Soap
• 10 Natural Bacteria and Microbiome Boosting Hand Moisturizers and Balms for Overwashed Skin
• 4 Fun and Educational Ways to Teach Kids How Germs Spread

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