The FDA Warns Purell to Stop Saying It Can Prevent the Flu and Other Serious Illnesses

The FDA Warns Purell to Stop Saying It Can Prevent the Flu and Other Serious Illnesses Purell has long been touted as the go-to hand sanitizer for people committed to personal hygiene. But recently, the sanitizer brand's parent company Gojo Industries found themselves in hot water with the FDA. In a letter sent to Gojo, the FDA cited several unsubstantiated health claims made on Purell's website and social. They called out incidents where the company suggests Purell products can protect against serious illness— including the flu, MRSA, norovirus, and Ebola. The FDA took particular issue with claims such as "kills more than 99.9% of most common germs that may cause illness in a healthcare setting." The letter noted that "the FDA is currently not aware of any adequate and well-controlled studies" that support these claims. Gojo has since released a statement to consumers regarding the FDA's letter. In the statement, Gojo said they take the FDA regultions "very seriously," and had already started making updates to their websites and "other digital content."