FDA warns of bacteria in 2 hand sanitizers produced and distributed in Puerto Rico
By APThursday, March 4, 2010
FDA warning for hand sanitizer in Puerto Rico
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers in Puerto Rico that two locally produced hand sanitizers contain high levels of bacteria.
The agency says “Bee-Shield Hand Sanitizer” with Aloe Vera and “MD Quality Hand Sanitizer” are distributed only in the U.S. Caribbean territory.
The FDA warned Wednesday that the Burkholderia cepacia bacteria can cause serious infections in humans when the hand sanitizers are used on skin with cuts or abrasions.
The products are manufactured by Puerto Rico Beverage Inc. of Maunabo. A recent FDA inspection of the company’s plant found serious problems with manufacturing practices. The company was not listed in the phone directory.
