> But people spend millions on this product every year? Surely they get some benefit
A psychological one, sure. They perceive that they're getting a health benefit (whether or not they actually are), so the money seems worth it. But the evidence is that it doesn't actually get your hands cleaner than non-antibacterial soap and that it may contribute to creating stronger bacteria.
The FDA's judgement is that the downsides outweigh the upsides. I tend to agree.
A psychological one, sure. They perceive that they're getting a health benefit (whether or not they actually are), so the money seems worth it. But the evidence is that it doesn't actually get your hands cleaner than non-antibacterial soap and that it may contribute to creating stronger bacteria.
The FDA's judgement is that the downsides outweigh the upsides. I tend to agree.