By Lexie Kauffman ‘22
The US Food and Drug Administration has declared that all hand sanitizer imports from Mexico are on “import alert.” The agency determined that the alcohol-based products must be checked before entering the country due to safety concerns.
When the pandemic first hit in March, hand sanitizer was in high demand. The FDA noticed an increase in hand sanitizer imports from Mexico that contained ethanol, also called ethyl alcohol. However, although they were labelled with ethanol, the imports often tested positive for methanol, also known as wood alcohol. Methanol is toxic when it is absorbed through the skin. If ingested, methanol can be deadly. The new import alert will allow shipments to be checked by the FDA to ensure the safety of consumers.
Judy McMeekin, FDA associate commissioner for regulatory affairs, commented on the import alert in a press release on Tuesday, January 28, 2021.
“Today’s actions are necessary to protect the safe supply of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. We will continue to work with our stakeholders to ensure the availability of safe products and to communicate vital information with the health and safety of U.S. consumers in mind.”
In the coming weeks, be mindful of where your health products come from, but continue to keep your hands clean to keep yourself and others safe through the pandemic. Stay safe and healthy!