Another day, more hand sanitizer drama as the FDA has issued an advisory to consumers not to use any hand sanitizer manufactured by Eskbiochem SA de CV in Mexico, due to the potential presence of methanol.
The ingredient, otherwise known as wood alcohol, is a substance that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested.
According to the FDA, the organization contacted Eskbiochem on June 17 "to recommend the company remove its hand sanitizer products from the market due to the risks associated with methanol poisoning. To date, the company has not taken action to remove these potentially dangerous products from the market. Therefore, FDA recommends consumers stop using these hand sanitizers and dispose of them immediately in appropriate hazardous waste containers. Do not flush or pour these products down the drain."
The FDA issued a full list of products the brand makes, which can be viewed here.
Update: On July 27, the FDA further expanded its warnings, by both reiterating the original message and adding to the list of companies using unsafe alcohols in its products.
