Three years ago, The New York Times reported on a study that had been published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases. The study generated discussion on whether gel and foam sanitizers get the job done.
The answer: they do, as long as the alcohol concentration of the sanitizer is between 60 - 95 percent.
The Times reported health officials say it takes an alcohol concentration of at least 60 percent to kill most harmful bacteria and viruses.
Check the active ingredients listed on the label of any hand sanitizer you may consider buying. By making sure the alcohol concentration is at least 60 percent, you’re making sure the product works.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/21/he...gewanted=print