EPA Cites Largest Hospital Disinfectant Manufacturer

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has filed a complaint against Lonza Inc., the largest U.S. manufacturer of hospital disinfectant, charging the company with making false claims about the effectiveness of its products against microbial pests.

Federal and state investigators collected products made by the New Jersey-based corporation from stores in New Jersey, California, Hawaii and North Carolina. They conducted laboratory tests that showed the disinfectants did not work against common infection-causing microorganisms.

The EPA is seeking a penalty of $202,500 against Lonza Inc. for these alleged violations of federal pesticide law.

The hospital disinfectant products that the joint federal and state investigation determined to be ineffective are Formula 158 Lemon Disinfectant, Fresh and Clean and REV. Formula 158 Lemon Disinfectant and Fresh and Clean did not kill Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, and REV did not kill either the Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus, as claimed on the labels.

Both pathogens can cause infections that can be serious, but the often are treatable with antibiotics. As a result of EPA's action, Lonza revised its claims on the Formula 158 Lemon Disinfectant labels to comply with EPA regulations and discontinued the REV formulations. Lonza Inc. has requested a meeting with EPA to discuss the alleged violations.

Before any pesticide is sold in the U.S., it must go through EPA's vigorous registration process, dictated by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). During this process, companies must provide health studies and environmental information about the product to ensure that its proper use does not cause any negative human or environmental effects. It is incumbent upon the manufacturer to ensure that its product lives up to its claims.

For more information about pesticides, their health effects, how to use and dispose of them, click here .

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