The Food and Drug Administration has announced a recall of hand sanitizer and aloe gel products that contain methanol, a toxic substance when applied to the skin or ingested. The recall affects 40 lots of Aruba Aloe Hand Sanitizer Gel Alcohol 80% and Aruba Aloe Alcoholada Gel, which were sold in the U.S. through the Aruba Aloe Balm website between May 1, 2021, and Oct. 27, 2023. The products were found to contain alcohol denatured with methanol, posing potential risks to consumers.
The FDA website provides information on the lot numbers and expiration dates of the affected products. The risk statement issued by the FDA warns of potential symptoms of methanol exposure, including nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, coma, seizures, permanent blindness, permanent damage to the central nervous system, or even death. While all users of the products are at risk, young children who accidentally ingest the products and those who use them as a substitute for ethanol are particularly vulnerable to methanol poisoning.
Customers who purchased the recalled products have been notified by the brand via email and offered a discount coupon for their next purchase. The FDA advises individuals with the recalled products to stop using them immediately and dispose of them properly. If any adverse effects are experienced after using the products, consumers are encouraged to contact their physician or healthcare provider. To date, there have been no reports of adverse events related to the recalled items, according to the company.
The presence of methanol in hand sanitizer and aloe gel products is a serious concern due to its potential toxicity. Methanol exposure can have severe consequences, with symptoms ranging from nausea and vomiting to permanent damage to the central nervous system. The recall of the Aruba Aloe products highlights the importance of being cautious when choosing and using personal care items. Consumers are urged to check the FDA website for information on affected products and to follow the guidelines provided to ensure their safety.
In response to the recall, Aruba Aloe has taken steps to notify customers who purchased the affected products and has offered them a discount for a future purchase. The company has not received any reports of adverse events related to the recalled items, but the FDA’s warning underscores the importance of stopping the use of these products immediately. By following the FDA’s guidance and seeking medical advice if necessary, consumers can protect themselves and their families from the potential dangers of methanol exposure in hand sanitizer and aloe gel products.
The recall of the Aruba Aloe hand sanitizer and aloe gel products serves as a reminder of the importance of product safety and transparency within the personal care industry. Methanol contamination poses serious health risks to consumers, particularly young children and those who ingest the products as a substitute for alcohol. By being vigilant about the products they use and following recall notices issued by the FDA, consumers can protect themselves and their loved ones from harm. It is crucial for companies to prioritize the safety of their products and address any potential risks promptly to prevent harm to their customers.
