HHS: Distilleries won't have to pay FDA fees of more than $14K for making hand sanitizers amid pandemic Coral Murphy, USA TODAY Replay Video UP NEXT Distilleries across the U.S. received a surprise fee from the Food and Drug Administration after using their facilities to make hand sanitizer amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As COVID-19 cases began surging in March, distilleries started making hand sanitizer by switching their alcohol production to antiseptic, undrinkable alcohol and giving away bottles to members of their communities. The efforts rose after the country faced a shortage in hand sanitizer as shoppers panic bought hand soap, cleaning wipes and other sanitation products.