On August 25, 2020, Asiaticon SA de CV recalled V-Klean Hand Sanitizer Gel, Medically Minded Hand Sanitizer Gel, and Protz Real Protection Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer because they 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.

The recalled products (see images) were distributed nationwide and come in plastic clear bottles with clear tops. They can be further identified by the following information:

• Product: V-Klean Hand Sanitizer Gel. Sizes: 8.5oz, 16.9oz, 33.8oz. UPC code: 716053704993
• Product: Medically Minded Hand Sanitizer Gel. Size: 16.9oz. UPC code: 676753003782
• Product: Protz Real Protection Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer. Size: 13.5oz. UPC code: 7503019005002

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 Asiaticon hand sanitizer 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

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

Florence Morris Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer Recalled

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