FDA Warns Consumers about Hand Sanitizers that Look Like Food

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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers about hand sanitizers that are packaged in food-like containers. The FDA found that some hand sanitizers are sold in packages that resemble juice bottles, water bottles, beer cans, and food pouches for kids. Some sanitizers are even labeled with flavors like chocolate and raspberry. According to the agency, the sanitizers might be mistaken for actual food or drink products because of their packaging. Previously, the agency received a report about a customer purchasing a bottle of hand sanitizer, thinking it was drinking water. Another report said that some hand sanitizers were packaged in snack-like containers that featured cartoons for children. Regardless of the amount ingested, accidentally consuming hand sanitizer may lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, and irritation of the stomach lining. Consumption of large amounts of sanitizer may lead to confusion, difficulty breathing requiring artificial ventilation, and even death. According to Dr. Robert Glatter, a physician at a New York-based hospital, children are the most at risk. The FDA is currently working with manufacturers to recall the hand sanitizers packaged in food-like containers. The agency advised manufacturers to be mindful of the marketing and packaging of hand sanitizers to prevent any inadvertent use by customers. The FDA also added the misleading products to its list of hand sanitizers consumers should avoid using.