FDA Import Alert Hand Sanitizers from Mexico Test for Toxic Ingredient

The Food and Drug Administration placed an import alert on alcohol-based hand sanitizers imported from Mexico after tests found more than half of the products contained “unsafe levels” of toxic ingredients, including methanol and 1-propanal.

As part of the import alert, which was announced on Tuesday, hand sanitizers will come under increased scrutiny by the FDA. Shipments that violate FDA rules can be halted altogether, the agency said. This is the first time the FDA has issued a nationwide import alert for any category of pharmaceuticals.

“Today’s actions are needed 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 communicate vital information while keeping in touch. mind the health and safety of American consumers, ”said Judy McMeekin, FDA associate commissioner of regulatory affairs.

Methanol is potentially toxic when absorbed through the skin and can be fatal if ingested, the FDA said. Imported products were labeled as containing ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, but testing confirmed methanol contamination.

Tests conducted by the FDA found that 84% of samples analyzed from April to December 2020 violated FDA regulations and more than half contained toxic substances at levels unsafe for human consumption. Symptoms of the exposure can include vomiting, seizures, blindness, central nervous system effects and hospitalizations and death, with young children being most at risk, the agency said.

The FDA has urged consumers who believe they have been exposed to a contaminated hand sanitizer and are experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.