Hand Sanitizers
U.S. Food and Drug Administration tests have found “unacceptable levels” of some cancer-causing chemicals, including benzene, acetaldehyde and acetal contaminants in some bottles, according to a warning issued Oct. 4.
The FDA says the risk of using these hand sanitizers is unknown, but research shows the chemicals they contain are known to cause cancer.
Benzene is among 20 of the most used chemicals in the U.S., commonly found in plastics, lubricants, rubbers, detergents and pesticides. Studies in both animals and people show benzene can cause cancer, particularly those in the blood.
Acetaldehyde can be found in perfumes, dyes, rubber and alcohol, among other products. Short-term exposure can irritate your eyes, skin and respiratory tract, but it can cause serious illness or death in the long-term. Studies conducted on animals suggest acetaldehyde can cause cancer in people.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol.
Whether Indian FDA has carried out any testing of many brands of sanitizers being sold? more