BioSmart FAQ
What is BioSmart?
BioSmart is a patent-pending textile technology developed by Milliken, Inc., which is applied to fabric to bind chlorine on the molecular level, producing an antimicrobial towel or garment using chlorine to kill bacteria and viruses.
How does the BioSmart technology work?
The BioSmart technology acts as a “middle man” by holding to the fabric and holding to chlorine molecules, binding the chlorine molecules to the fabric to produce an antimicrobial garment that will withstand the industrial laundering process.
Where can I get BioSmart towels and garments?
BioSmart towels and garments are available for the Food Industry exclusively through G&K Services, Inc.
Against which viruses and bacteria is BioSmart effective?
Independent lab testing has confirmed that the chlorine used with BioSmart is effective in killing 99.9% of common bacteria and viruses, including:
• E-coli
• Staph
• Listeria
• Salmonella
• Hepatitis A
How does BioSmart technology kill bacteria and viruses?
Chlorine is the antimicrobial killing agent used with BioSmart garments and towels. The magic of BioSmart is that it binds chlorine, a highly volatile chemical, to a fabric on the molecular level to keep the chlorine from evaporating. The bacteria and viruses consume the chlorine molecules and die.
Is BioSmart processed with a special bleach?
BioSmart garments and towels are processed with a chlorine solution that has been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency. To be registered, the manufacturer conducted extensive testing to confirm the 99.9% kill rate for E-Coli, Staph, Salmonella and Hepatitis A and submitted those results to the EPA to support its claims.
What products are available with BioSmart technology?
Currently, the BioSmart product line includes:
• White 100% spun-poly butcher coats
• White 100% spun poly aprons
• White 65/35 poly-cotton shirt
• White 65/35 poly-cotton pants
• BioSmart 17x20 white terry towel
How long will BioSmart technology last?
The BioSmart technology is effective for the life of the garment.
Why does BioSmart technology use chlorine to kill bacteria and viruses?
Chlorine is an commonly accepted antimicrobial agent in the Food Industry and its benefits are widely known and understood.
Does the chlorine used with BioSmart technology kill mold and mildew?
Chlorine is an effective agent in inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew.
Does BioSmart smell like bleach?
No. BioSmart technology binds chlorine at the molecular level and does not produce a bleach smell.
Is BioSmart hypo-allergenic?
BioSmart technology has not been tested for allergens. If an allergic reaction is suspected, the individual should avoid continued use of a BioSmart treated product.
Do I have to change my sanitizer or use a special BioSmart sanitizer?
BioSmart technology is designed to enhance your existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), GMPs or HACCP plan and does not require a special sanitizer.
Does a BioSmart towel or garment replace my need for sanitizer?
BioSmart technology is designed to enhance your existing sanitization program, not replace it.
Does a BioSmart towel need to use a sanitization bucket?
Yes, BioSmart towels should be utilized in accordance with your existing sanitization protocol.
Has the USDA and FDA approved the use of BioSmart?
BioSmart garments and towels are not designated for direct contact with food, and therefore do not require FDA and USDA approval.
Is BioSmart safe to use with all sanitizers?
Chlorine-based sanitizers are ideal for use with BioSmart technology; however, BioSmart technology is effective with all types of sanitizers, including ammonia-based sanitizers. Incorporating BioSmart technology does not require changes to your existing sanitizer or your sanitization protocols.
Will the chlorine used with the BioSmart technology react with an ammonia-based sanitizer?
Independent lab testing results of outgas (vapor) testing determined that the chlorine used with BioSmart technology does not react with an ammonia-based sanitizer.
Will the chlorine used by with BioSmart technology bleach out clothes, underclothes or tablecloths?
The chlorine used with BioSmart technology is bound to the fabric at the molecular level; therefore, the chlorine should not bleach clothes, table linens or other fabrics, whether wet or dry. However, a heavily concentrated chlorine based-sanitizer may discolor these fabrics regardless of the BioSmart technology and should be used in accordance with existing Standard Operating Procedures.
How many Parts Per Million (PPM) of chlorine does BioSmart require?
BioSmart technology was developed to retain a 450 PPM count or greater, making it a potent antimicrobial agent.
Will BioSmart technology leave a residue on surfaces?
Both the BioSmart technology and the chlorine molecules are bound to the fabric and will not leave a chemical residue on surfaces; however, terry towels do produce lint and BioSmart towels may deposit a lint residue on surfaces.
Are there other products available with BioSmart technology?
Additional products featuring BioSmart may be available. Please consult with your G&K Services customer representative for additional product availability.
Will BioSmart be available in colors other than white?
Currently, BioSmart garments come exclusively in white. Please consult with your G&K Services customer representative for additional color availability.
What if I need a custom BioSmart product?
Custom products may be available, depending on your account parameters. Please consult with your G&K Services customer representative for a custom-product program.
