Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

A Microplate Assay to Assess Chemical Effects on RBL-2H3 Mast Cell Degranulation: Effects of Triclosan without Use of an Organic Solvent
Published on: November 1, 2013
Safety studies conducted on a sanitizing agent containing benzalkonium chloride
Laurie C Dolan1, Jack A Wheeler, George A Burdock
1Burdock Group, Orlando, FL 32801, USA.
Free N Clear, a sanitizing agent, demonstrated safety in Sprague-Dawley rats and genetic toxicity tests. These findings support its use as a food sanitizing agent.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Food Safety
- Chemical Safety
Background:
- Free N Clear is a sanitizing agent containing benzalkonium chloride (BAC), acetic acid, and methylparaben.
- It is proposed for use at a 1:50 dilution (2% solution), containing approximately 100 ppm BAC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and genetic toxicity of Free N Clear.
- To determine the no observable adverse-effect level (NOAEL) in Sprague-Dawley rats.
- To evaluate mutagenicity and in vivo genotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- A 91-day gavage study in Sprague-Dawley rats.
- In vitro bacterial reverse mutation assay.
- In vivo micronucleus test in bone marrow cells.
Main Results:
- The NOAEL for diluted Free N Clear was 5000 mg/kg bw/day, the highest dose tested.
- Diluted Free N Clear was not mutagenic in the bacterial assay.
- No increase in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes was observed in rats.
Conclusions:
- The results support the safety of Free N Clear at the proposed concentration.
- These findings facilitate the development of Free N Clear as a food sanitizing agent.
Related Concept Videos
Chemical Agents for Microbial Control
Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution: Chlorination and Bromination of Benzene
Reactions at the Benzylic Position: Halogenation
Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Antimicrobial Effectiveness
