Tests by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog found six of 24 locally sold alcohol-based disinfectants had trace amounts of methanol, a violation of the city’s Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance. Photo: Shutterstock
Tests by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog found six of 24 locally sold alcohol-based disinfectants had trace amounts of methanol, a violation of the city’s Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance. Photo: Shutterstock
Consumer protection in Hong Kong
Hong Kong /  Society

Coronavirus: Hong Kong watchdog urges wariness over alcohol-based disinfectants as traces of methanol found

  • Micro levels of the toxic substance were found in six of 24 locally available alcohol-based disinfectants tested by the Consumer Council
  • While the tests showed levels that fell within WHO safety recommendations, the risk of chronic poisoning remains, research committee chair says

Karen Zhang

Updated: 5:05pm, 15 Apr, 2020

Why you can trust SCMP
Tests by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog found six of 24 locally sold alcohol-based disinfectants had trace amounts of methanol, a violation of the city’s Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance. Photo: Shutterstock
Tests by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog found six of 24 locally sold alcohol-based disinfectants had trace amounts of methanol, a violation of the city’s Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance. Photo: Shutterstock
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