Soho Fresh 70% Rubbing Alcohol Recalled Over Methanol Contamination

The maker of Soho Fresh 70% rubbing alcohol has issued a recall on its product because of methanol contamination.

Essar Inc. voluntarily recalled the rubbing alcohol that was sold in 33.81 ounce plastic bottles and distributed to retailers nationwide after an FDA analysis found the product was contaminated.

Exposure to methanol in significant doses can lead to some serious conditions including, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death, according to the FDA. 

Young children who accidentally ingest these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are considered the most at-risk group, according to the FDA. No one should ingest hand sanitizer of any kind, according to the FDA, because all varieties of the product are toxic but methanol can be particularly harmful.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020 the FDA has issued numerous recalls on rubbing alcohol because of  methanol contamination. In the rush to release hand sanitizers and take advantage of a booming marketplace, many companies released hand sanitizers containing methanol, a wood alcohol. It’s not clear that the methanol began appearing for nefarious reasons, and many of the companies, like Essar Inc., voluntarily recalled their products, according to TechSpray, which has a nice look at the chemistry behind the hand sanitizers. 

Individuals who purchased the Soho Fresh 70% rubbing alcohol are advised to not open the packaging or use the product, and either discard it immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

No injuries or side effects have been reported from the Soho Fresh product. 

If you believe you have been adversely affected by the product, seek medical attention immediately. You can also notify the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program via an online form, phone or fax.

Consumers who have further questions about the recall can contact Essaar Inc. at 201-647-7606 Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm, Eastern Standard Time, or via email at essaarinc@yahoo.com.

Did you purchase the now-recalled Soho Fresh Rubbing Alcohol? Let us know in the comment section below.

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