ABSTRACT
Is th e antimicrobial arsenal of choice keeping us healthier? Does cur rent antimicrobial technology provide the answer for the ongoing health issues involving various aspects of human life? Answers for such questions and concerns are coming from a wide choice of antimi crobial products, such as soaps, hand sanitizers, cleansers, moisturiz ing body washes, cutting boards, sponges, appliances, pillows, sheets, toothpastes, and even toys. Interest in these antimicrobial products has been clearly demonstrated by consumption of $1 billion worth of products in 1997, in the United States alone. Interest has been further augmented by the striking headlines about killer viruses and deadly bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. The fact that these specialized products carry a 10 to 20 percent higher price further bears witness to the consumers’ awareness and concern. About 200 antimicrobial prod ucts hit the market between 1996 and 1997; double that number were launched during 1998 in response to the need and awareness of the consumers. While some might believe that this increase in products is partially market hype, the use of antimicrobial products plays a real and important role, especially in hospitals and childcare centers, where infections are rampant. It is important to remember that, although clearly compelling literature always does not exist to substantiate the
need and benefit of such products in the home, the role of such prod ucts in the healthcare market is vitally important in areas such as sur gical scrubs and surgical-site preparations, hand-washing products, and disinfection of critical areas.
