FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brian Sansoni, The Soap and Detergent Association, 202-662-2517, bsansoni@cleaning101.com

Statement of the SDA/CTFA Topical Antimicrobial Coalition Regarding This Week’s FDA NDAC Hearing

Associations Outline Important Role and Safety of Consumer Antibacterial Hygiene Products

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 18, 2005 – The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) and The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA), which represent cleaning and personal care product makers, today issued the following statement regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s Non-Prescription Drug Advisory Committee (NDAC) meeting:

“As part of an ordinary regulatory process, the FDA NDAC is meeting this week for a discussion of antibacterial products. We look forward to once again sharing with the public and the FDA the latest science demonstrating the effectiveness and safety of antibacterial products.

“More than thirty years of research has proven that antimicrobial washes reduce or eliminate bacteria that can lead to skin infections, intestinal illnesses or other commonly transmitted diseases. These products – whether soaps, gels, wipes or other forms – provide a valuable extra measure of protection for their users.

“Antibacterial products have been proven safe year after year, however it is the FDA’s responsibility to regularly ask questions about the safety of any product it reviews. While laboratory studies have speculated about a link between antimicrobial products and bacterial resistance, there is simply no clinical real-world evidence of increased resistance.

“At the heart of this discussion is the fact that antibacterial wash products have an important role in the lives of consumers. Everyday, people face great potential for the transmission of bacteria to themselves or to others, whether they are handling food, changing diapers, dealing with illness, sending kids to daycare, visiting public bathrooms, or interacting with others. Antibacterial products are proven to control the risks associated with exposure to potentially pathogenic organisms.

“There now exists compelling and well-regarded research demonstrating that antimicrobial products render higher levels of bacterial reduction than those without an active ingredient. Importantly, the activity of antibacterial wash products plays an important role in controlling the growth and spread of germs. And in places where soap and water are not available, sanitizers and antibacterial wipes are highly recommended for maintaining good hygiene.

“It is important to note that we believe consumers should be assured they are using the most effective products available. Our coalition supports requiring consumer antibacterial products to meet the same efficacy standard as professional products, as long as an appropriate, standardized method of testing is used by the FDA.”

Additional web link: SDA/CTFA Presentation Materials, FDA Non-Prescription Drug Advisory Committee meeting, October 2005: www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/ac/05/briefing/2005-4184B1_02_00-CTFA-TOC.htm

SDA/CTFA Q&A on antibacterial products: www.germsmart.com

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CTFA is the national trade association representing the cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance industry. Founded in 1894, CTFA has an active membership of approximately 300 companies that manufacture or distribute the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States. CTFA also includes approximately 300 associate member companies, including manufacturers of raw materials, trade and consumer magazines, and other related industries.

The Soap and Detergent Association is the non-profit trade association representing manufacturers of household, industrial and institutional cleaning products; their ingredients; and finished packaging; and oleochemical producers. SDA members produce more than 90% of the cleaning products marketed in the U.S.