USA based AATCC, a leading not-for-profit association, which has been serving textile professionals since 1921, has warned the industry not to be misled by false anti-viral product claims in the COVID19 pandemic.

AATC provides test method development, quality control materials, and professional networking for members in about 50 countries throughout the world. The organisation issued the following statement today.

“The uncertainties surrounding COVID19 and the best response for safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), has many understandably concerned. However, the AATC warns, do not be misled by false or ill-informed product claims concerning protection against the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 or COVID19 in textiles or related materials. 

Using AATCC TM100 or TM147 to demonstrate efficacy against viral activity is not the correct application for these methods as they evaluate bacterial activity. It is appropriate to use TM100 and TM147 to support claims related to odour control; however, it is not appropriate to use these methods to support claims related to viral protection.

Successfully passing AATCC TM100 or AATCC TM147 has no bearing on whether a product will prevent or protect against the COVID19 virus. While an excellent predictor of functionality, if someone promises or alludes that their textile-related product will defend against COVID19 solely because it passed one or both of these methods, please be cautious.

If someone claims that AATCC endorses or certifies their product to protect against COVID19, please note this is a false statement. AATCC, as a member association, does not make endorsements. AATCC does not provide any external product level certifications.

As of this release, there are currently no AATCC textile testing methods or approved modifications of AATCC testing methods that are available for specifically measuring antiviral activity of textiles against SARS-CoV-2.”

www.aatcc.org