The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with Super Center Concepts, Inc., operating as Superior Grocers, concerning the alleged distribution of two unregistered disinfectant products. As part of the agreement, the company will pay $253,909 for these violations and has ceased distributing or selling the disinfectants in question.
An inspection by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation at Superior Grocers' Santa Ana location led to an EPA investigation. It was discovered that in 2020, the company distributed "Home Line Antibacterial Wipes," which were not registered and claimed to be "antibacterial" and capable of "killing germs," to 47 stores across California. Additionally, another unregistered product named Ha Ha Fu Sterilized Wet Wipes was sold from their Santa Ana location. This product also claimed to "kill 99% of germs and bacteria" and advertised its effectiveness against Coronavirus.
According to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), any product claiming to eliminate or mitigate pests on surfaces must undergo registration with the EPA before sale or distribution. This process ensures products are tested for safety and efficacy according to federal standards. Neither of these products completed this registration process.
"Distributing unregistered disinfectants is a serious violation that can put the public’s health at risk," stated Joel Jones, Acting Director of EPA's Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. "This action reinforces EPA's commitment to protect Americans by ensuring that products meet federal safety and efficacy requirements."
Unregistered products pose potential risks to human health due to possible adverse effects and may not effectively prevent germ spread. Federal laws mandate registration and labeling requirements for such products to ensure they are safe for their intended use.
For further details on EPA-registered disinfectant products or pesticide registration information, individuals are encouraged to visit relevant resources provided by the agency.
Information regarding reporting potential violations of environmental laws can be found on EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Additional insights into EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region activities can be accessed through their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
