MOH bans three batches of Chomel hand sanitiser over excessive methanol content

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has taken decisive action by banning three batches of Chomel Hand Sanitizer due to methanol content exceeding the permitted limit, according to a statement released today. The decision was made after the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) conducted tests on the products under its market surveillance program for cosmetic product quality.

The three affected batches are BN111025, BN01026, and BN061225, which the MOH asserts do not meet the specifications outlined in Malaysia's Guidelines for Control of Cosmetic Products.

Methanol, a chemical banned for use as an active ingredient in cosmetics like hand sanitizers, poses significant health risks when uncontrolled. Exposure can lead to skin and eye irritation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, nervous system damage, visual impairment, and potentially coma or death with excessive or accidental ingestion.

The MOH has urged the public to refrain from purchasing or using products from the affected batches, ordering sellers and distributors to halt the sale and distribution of these items to prevent regulatory violations.

Offenders of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984 could face penalties ranging from RM25,000 to RM50,000 for first-time offenses, escalating to RM50,000 to RM100,000 for subsequent violations. Companies could be fined up to RM50,000 for a first offense, increasing to RM100,000 for subsequent offenses. The MOH also advises anyone experiencing discomfort or adverse reactions to stop using the product and seek immediate medical attention.