The EPA’s definition of a “broad spectrum” disinfectant is one that has public health claims for all three of the major classes of organisms:
- Bacteria – effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria
- Fungi – effective against at least one pathogenic fungus (usually Trichophyton mentagrophytes)
- Viruses – effective against pathogenic viruses (at least one enveloped virus, such as Influenza A or one non-enveloped virus, such as Adenovirus)
If the above criteria are met, a disinfectant can make an unqualified “kills germs” claim on its label. Sanitizers are not considered broad spectrum by EPA’s definition since they are only meant to reduce bacteria levels
