FDA issues warnings to 4 hand sanitizer companies

WASHINGTON The Food and Drug Administration says the companies claim their lotions and gels can prevent a variety of infections, including E. coli and bird flu. Companies that claim their products can prevent a disease must submit scientific studies to the FDA before marketing them.

The FDA sent warning letters to four companies: Tec Laboratories, JD Nelson and Associates, Dr. G.H. Tichener Antiseptic Co. and Oh So Clean Inc.

The warning letters order each company to correct the unsupported claims within 15 days.

"The FDA cannot allow companies to mislead consumers by making unproven prevention claims," said FDA compliance director Deborah Autor, in a statement.