'Green' disinfectant fails germ kill claim

A disinfectant produced by one the country's major 'green' brands has been recalled for failing to meet the standards claimed on its label.

Consumer Affairs today issued a product recall for Earthwise's 'Eucalyptus & Thyme' disinfectant in the 1L bottle.

"The disinfectant 1L does not meet the stated 99.9 per cent germ kill claim stated on the label," Consumer Affairs said in a media statement.

"The product will not provide the stated germ kill protection."

Earthwise marketing manager Rachel Beattie said the recall was actually issued on August 30 and she did not know why Consumer Affairs had only now put out a release.

The Auckland-based company, which makes natural laundry and dish-cleaning products, said it had taken the product off shelves.

It reassured customers that the disinfectant was not dangerous but "just doesn't work as well as we'd like".

"We were disappointed recently to discover that our disinfectant falls short of the 99.9 per cent germ kill claim on the pack," Earthwise said in a statement.

"We're working really hard to reformulate and bring you an improved formula that meets your expectations of Earthwise really soon."

People who have bought the product could take it back to where they bought it for a full refund.

"It's ok to tip it down the sink if you'd prefer," Earthwise said.

The Earthwise Disinfectant Eucalyptus & Thyme 1L (Barcode 9421027310469) is being sold at New World, Pak n Save and Countdown Stores nationwide.