On August 17, 2020, Grupo Asimex De Mexico Sa De CV recalled Florence Morris Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer because it may contain methanol, which is toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested. The products also may have a sub-potent ethanol content, which leads to a lack of efficacy.

The FDA first warned consumers about the possible presence of methanol in certain hand sanitizers in June and has continued to update consumers about potentially-affected products and recalls.

Recalled Florence Morris Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer products (see image) were distributed in Florida. They are packaged in 8oz and 1L bottles and have lot codes of 200520673, 200520674, 200525677, or 200601685.

Methanol, sometimes called wood alcohol, is poisonous. Methanol exposure through the skin or by ingestion can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. The agency warned that consumers who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing methanol to "seek immediate treatment, which is critical for potential reversal of toxic effects of methanol poisoning." 

All individuals who have recalled Florence Morris Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer products should immediately stop using it and return it to the place of purchase.

Methanol is a different form of alcohol than ethyl alcohol. Hand sanitizer containing at least 60% ethyl alcohol is recommended by the CDC for disinfecting hands when soap and water are not available, and is generally considered safe when used as directed. See the CDC's website for more information about using hand sanitizer.

See related warnings:

Nine Hand Sanitizers May Contain Toxic Ingredient That Can Cause Serious Illness or Death

Four More Companies Recall Hand Sanitizers

FDA Warns Eskbiochem for Hand Sanitizers That May Contain Toxic Ingredient

Two More Companies Recall Potentially Toxic Hand Sanitizers

Gelbac T Antibacterial Handgel Recalled

Another Toxic Ingredient Found in Hand Sanitizer

SkinGuard24 Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Yacana Hand Sanitizer Recalled

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