St. Louis - Hear that? It's the sound of the first mercury free hearing aid batteries to hit the U.S. market. The tiny batteries - which Energizer was the first to debut globally in Europe in 2001 - are Energizer's best performing zero mercury hearing aid batteries to date. In addition to developing a battery that is better for the environment and for U.S. consumers, scientists at Energizer's research and development facility in Westlake, Ohio, also have been able to enhance product consistency. The new zero mercury product will be widely available throughout the U.S. by October.
"For more than a decade, Energizer has conducted extensive laboratory and field testing to perfect its zero mercury hearing aid batteries," said Serge Traylor, Energizer Brand Manager. "We are delighted to be the first to offer this advanced technology to our U.S. consumers."
In 1989, Energizer was the first battery maker to remove mercury from household batteries. With the announcement of its zero mercury hearing aid batteries, Energizer will once again help to move the battery industry forward in a way that is beneficial to both consumers and the environment.
"Energizer has a long history of being at the forefront of developing and implementing technology that is safer for the environment," said Traylor. "While the amount of mercury we removed was small in comparison to other mercury containing products, we are nevertheless pleased to be taking the lead with our hearing aid batteries."
Currently, all zinc air hearing aid batteries sold in the U.S. contain mercury. Through a combination of new product designs, purer raw materials and new manufacturing processes, Energizer's R&D scientists are now able to produce cells with zero mercury.
Facts about hearing loss from the Hearing Loss Association of America:
- While more than 28 million Americans currently experience hearing loss, a mere one out of five people who could benefit from hearing aids are wearing them.
- People with hearing loss wait an average of seven years before seeking help.
- Hearing aids can help 95 percent of people with hearing loss.
About Energizer:
Energizer Holdings, Inc. [NYSE: ENR], www.energizer.com, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the world's largest manufacturers of primary batteries, battery-powered devices and flashlights. Energizer, a global leader in the dynamic business of providing portable power geared toward the new digital age, offers a full portfolio of products including, the Energizer® MAX® premium alkaline brand;Energizer® Ultimate Lithium and Energizer® e2® Titanium Technology® performance brands;Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Rechargeable batteries and chargers;and miniatures brand batteries.
The Energizer product line also includes specialty batteries for hearing aids and medical devices, as well as for keyless remote entry systems, toys and other uses. Through its flashlight unit, Energizer brings innovation to this important household device. Energizer continues its role as a technology leader as it launches Energizer® Energi To Go®, portable battery-driven power packs for cell phones.
