So Long, Stinky Hand Sanitizers!

Non-FDA Regulated & Non-OTC Compliant Manufacturers of Hand Sanitizers

Remember back in March 2020 (the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic) when supply and demand impacted the availability of hand sanitizers?

Rampant stockpiling increased the demand for hand sanitizers to a level that almost rivaled that of toilet paper!

To meet increased demand at that time, the FDA relaxed the rules and issued temporary guidances that allowed non-FDA regulated and non-OTC compliant manufacturers to produce hand sanitizers. Hence, the introduction of the “stinky hand sanitizer”… You know what I’m talking about, it smells like rotten garbage or a tequila bar the day after Cinco de Mayo!

The smell is often the result of these pop-up manufacturers using cheaply denatured ethanol, a readily available alternative to beverage-grade or carbon-filtered ethanol (a process that typically removes contaminants and malodors). Denatured ethanol is often intentionally tainted with chemical denaturants like methanol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone to make it unpalatable, i.e. undrinkable.

Not All Hand Sanitizers Are Created Equal!

So, why the long introduction, you ask? Well, in March 2020, like other companies, Stream2Sea recognized that with our Florida-based, FDA-registered manufacturing facility, we could quickly meet the public demand for safe and effective hand sanitizers. We also knew that we could produce something better; something safer for you, your family, and our planet.

Since then, we have been espousing the fact that “Not All Hand Sanitizers Are Created Equal!”

Locally Sourced from Florida Citrus Growers

Rather than using chemically denatured ethanol, we found a local source – Florida citrus growers. Our ethanol is a by-product of the citrus industry, made from fermented citrus peels, and we personally denature our beverage-grade ethanol with eucalyptus oil, making it unpalatable, yet still biodegradable and safe for those with chemical sensitivities.

Stream2Sea Hand Sanitizers work great – killing 99.9% of germs in 15 seconds. And best of all, they feel and smell great!

So Long, Stinky Hand Sanitizers!

In mid-October, the FDA announced that effective December 31, 2021, they intend to withdraw their “temporary guidances” that allowed non-FDA and non-OTC complaint manufacturers to produce hand sanitizers. Companies that are not in compliance will be required to cease production by the end of the year.

So, we are happy to say “so long, stinky hand sanitizers” while also reassuring you that FDA-compliant Stream2Sea Hand Sanitizers are here to stay. We are here to do what we do best, provide tested and proven safe & effective products for you, your family, and our planet.

References:

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-brief-fda-withdrawing-temporary-guidances-alcohol-based-hand-sanitizers

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/why-hand-sanitizers-smell/

https://stream2sea.com/a-comparison-of-hand-sanitizers/

Stream2Sea has set a new standard for EcoConscious sunscreen and skincare. Along with the required human safety and SPF tests, Stream2Sea products are proven to be readily biodegradable in both salt and fresh water and have passed a comprehensive series of aquatic toxicity tests. Formulated with powerful antioxidant blends to protect skin from sun damage, the Stream2Sea line includes safe sunscreens, conditioning shampoo and body wash, leave-in conditioner, nourishing body lotion and lip balms. Stream2Sea products are currently available online at www.Stream2Sea.com or ask for them at your favorite health food store, dive center or outdoor retailer. Friend us on Facebook or call (866) 960-9513.