WASHINGTON - Federal health officials have warned Procter & Gamble Co. that it unlawfully is marketing a new hand sanitizer for use by children.
Company claims that Vicks Early Defense Foaming Hand Sanitizer prevents colds and provides up to three hours of antimicrobial activity are not allowed, the Food and Drug Administration warned in a letter made public Tuesday.
The FDA said it knows of no significant health risks associated with the product but that it is concerned because the product has not been proved to do what P&G says does.
The company thinks the claims are legitimate and comply with FDA regulations, P&G spokesman David Bernens said. It will work with FDA to clear up any misconceptions, he added.
P&G introduced the hand sanitizer in August, Bernens said. It is meant to be rubbed into the hands and left on when soap and water are not available. It contains triclosan, an antimicrobial compound.
Under the proposed FDA standards for antimicrobial products that use triclosan, labeling must direct consumers to rinse with water after use, the agency says in a separate news release.
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