Illegal Disinfectants Pulled from Kansas City Grocery Stores: What You Need To Know

In a recent action to protect consumers, the Kansas and Missouri Departments of Agriculture, in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ordered 17 grocery stores in the Kansas City area to halt the sale and distribution of certain disinfectant products. Among the affected items were unauthorized versions of Fabuloso household disinfectants, which the EPA deemed noncompliant with federal law and

potentially hazardous to public health.

Fabuloso Cleaner

What’s the Issue?

The EPA discovered that these products were illegally imported into the United States and lacked proper federal registration, which is required under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Inspections revealed that these products contained glutaraldehyde, an active ingredient not authorized for use in U.S. household disinfectants due to health risks such as:

• Respiratory issues: Asthma, throat, and lung irritation

• Skin problems: Dermatitis and itching

• Eye discomfort: Burning or conjunctivitis

• Other symptoms: Sneezing, wheezing, and nasal irritation

Many of the products were marketed in Spanish and sold in grocery stores catering to Hispanic communities, creating a particular concern about ensuring all consumers are aware of the risks.

Which Products Are Affected?

In addition to unauthorized versions of Fabuloso, the following products were also found to be noncompliant and are now prohibited for sale:

• 48 Horas Prevencion Antibacterial Clorox

• Clorox Ropa

• Royal Pine

• Pinol el Original

• Cloralex El Rendidor

• Axiom Complete

• Golden Essence Multi-Purpose Antibacterial Wipes

These products may still be in households, so consumers are urged to check their disinfectants carefully.

How to Identify Illegal Products

If you have purchased a disinfectant recently, follow these steps:

1. Check the label: EPA-approved disinfectants display a unique registration number.

2. Verify claims: Products that claim to kill viruses or bacteria but lack EPA approval are illegal.

3. Dispose safely: If a product is not EPA-registered, contact your local waste provider for proper disposal options.

It's important to note that U.S.-approved Fabuloso products (with English labeling) are safe to use and contain an approved active ingredient. However, be cautious with versions that make anti-viral or anti-bacterial claims without an EPA registration number.

Protecting Consumers

The EPA’s Region 7 Administrator, Meg McCollister, emphasized the importance of swift action, particularly in communities already facing pollution and health disparities. “EPA and our state partners are committed to protecting customers from potentially dangerous pesticide products,” she stated.

To prevent further risks, the grocery stores inspected have been required to remove the illegal products from shelves and halt all future sales or distribution.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions about these products or pesticide safety, the EPA provides a dedicated hotline:

• English: 1-800-858-7378

• Spanish: 1-888-919-4372

For additional information on pesticide regulations and consumer safety, visit the EPA’s website or consult their resources on the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).

At All Sleek Services, we encourage everyone to remain vigilant about the products they bring into their homes. If you suspect any issues with household cleaners or disinfectants, take action immediately to protect your loved ones. For updates and more safety tips, stay connected with us!