SDA/CTFA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two trade associations representing personal care and cleaning product makers today set the record straight on consumer use of antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers.

The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA, www.cleaning101.com) and The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA, www.ctfa.org) presented straightforward information to counter inaccurate statements contained in a March 29 news release issued by the Saint Louis University School of Medicine.

"Antibacterial soaps and waterless sanitizers are safe when used properly and are a part of a good hygiene routine in homes, hospitals, schools, and offices around the world," the associations said in a statement.

Here are five facts to consider:

1) Antibacterial personal care products do what they say they do: they kill harmful bacteria. Additionally, a comprehensive review of scientific literature shows many and varied benefits from use of topical antimicrobial products, according to materials submitted by SDA and CTFA to the Food and Drug Administration, which regulates antibacterial soaps.

In addition to killing harmful germs, disinfectants and some antibacterial household cleaning products are formulated to kill viruses, such as Herpes simplex; Rhinovirus, which is the leading cause of the common cold, and Rotavirus, the major cause of diarrhea in young children. To determine the product that is right for the job, read the label.

2) Comprehensive, independent reviews (FDA, European Union, British House of Lords) of available research have reported no evidence that decades of usage of antibacterial products has led to antibiotic resistance in real-world settings. An October 2003 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology "refutes widely publicized, yet unsupported, hypotheses that use of antibacterial products facilitates the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria from the home environment."

We know that the over-prescription of antibiotic drugs by the medical community is the major cause of antibiotic resistance. The evidence, as cited repeatedly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is crystal clear.

3) Cleaning products are routinely studied for potential risks that their use poses to the environment. The quantities that are disposed of by households, combined with mechanisms that contribute to their removal in wastewater treatment systems, leads to levels in the environment that are below those that could cause effects. These products are formulated for safe disposal in either municipal or home wastewater treatment systems.

4) The Soap and Detergent Association, The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association and their members have a long-standing commitment to promote the appropriate use of antibacterial personal care and household cleaning products. Through consumer and educator outreach, we will continue to provide this information to consumers, educators and medical professionals.

5) Waterless hand sanitizers are useful hygiene products when soap and water aren't available. Studies have demonstrated the usefulness of these products in reducing school absenteeism rates.

"In a time where we need to do more to encourage proper hygiene and cleaning practices – especially in healthcare settings – it is disappointing to see inaccurate statements that could discourage the use of beneficial hygiene products," said SDA and CTFA. "Our associations are happy to provide good information to anyone seeking a balanced perspective on the safe and proper usage of antibacterial soaps, sanitizers, and cleaning products."

Websites for more information: The Soap and Detergent Association: www.cleaning101.com/health

The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association: www.ctfa.org

Facts about antibacterial products: www.germsmart.com

For examples of research showcasing the health benefits of antibacterial personal hygiene and cleaning products and disinfectant products, please contact Brian Sansoni at SDA, 202.662.2517 or via email at bsansoni@cleaning101.com.

The Soap and Detergent Association is the non-profit trade association representing manufacturers of household, industrial and institutional cleaning products; their ingredients; and finished packaging; and oleochemical producers. SDA members produce more than 90% of the cleaning products marketed in the U.S.

CTFA is the national trade association representing the cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance industry. Founded in 1894, CTFA has an active membership of approximately 300 companies that manufacture or distribute the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States. CTFA also includes approximately 300 associate member companies, including manufacturers of raw materials, trade and consumer magazines, and other related industries.