Targeting Biocide Overuse in Consumer Products Will Strengthen Global AMR Action

This Environmental Science & Technology (2026) viewpoint argues that the widespread use of biocides in everyday consumer products—such as antibacterial soaps, disinfectants, and cleaning agents—represents an underrecognized driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These chemicals, particularly quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), are continuously released into wastewater and the environment, where they create selective pressure that promotes resistant bacteria and facilitates cross-resistance to clinically important antibiotics. Importantly, the authors emphasize that many of these products offer little or no added health benefit over regular soap and water, meaning their risks outweigh their value. The paper calls for integrating consumer-product biocides into global AMR strategies, including regulatory restrictions, environmental monitoring, and public awareness efforts, positioning the reduction of unnecessary biocide use as a “low-hanging fruit” in combating AMR.