3 batches of hand sanitiser banned over toxic methanol levels

The health ministry in Malaysia has announced the prohibition of three batches of the Chomel hand sanitiser due to alarming levels of methanol. This decision came after the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency conducted routine tests on products available in the market and discovered excessive methanol content. The three affected product batches are identified as BN111025, BN01026, and BN061225.

Methanol, when present in hand sanitizers, poses significant health risks. The ministry emphasizes that while minute quantities of methanol may be permissible in specific circumstances, its uncontrolled exposure can result in a range of adverse effects. These include skin and eye irritation, severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, damage to the nervous system, visual impairment, and in severe cases, coma or even death.

The ministry strongly advises consumers to discontinue the use of the implicated Chomel hand sanitiser batches immediately. If individuals experience any discomfort or adverse reactions, it urges them to seek medical attention promptly.