What is the difference between V.18 and FAM?

FAM in a Nutshell
FAM is a powerful iodophor general purpose disinfectant. It is bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal and therefore offers protection from a wide range of disease causing (pathogenic) microorganisms. It has a slightly higher iodine level than V18 and is more effective in its uses.

FAM has been tested, and shown to be effective, against microorganisms which cause disease in cattle, dogs, horses, pigs and poultry. It has also been shown to be effective against many human pathogens.

FAM can be used wherever there is a risk of infection, it is particularly suitable for use in animal houses, for disinfecting buildings and associated equipment.

FAM is Ministry Approved for use against the notifiable diseases:- Foot and Mouth, Swine Vesicular, Newcastle and Tuberculosis.

V.18 in a Nutshell
Vanodine V.18 is an Iodophor, specially formulated and stabilized for use with all types of livestock and domestic pets.  V.18 should be regarded as a biocide.  A biocide inactivates ALL types of organisms, viruses, bacteria and even fungi, whereas most disinfectants do not do this, as they are “selective” in what they kill.  Very few, for example, are effective against the polio virus, the tuberculosis bacterium, or many of the antibiotic resistant organisms which have resulted from extensive bacteria and viruses. 

Another major benefit is that V.18 can be used to keep down bacteria in the presence of livestock.

V.18 can be used to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi – which cause the following diseases: Arthritis, Aspergillosis, Chronic Respiratory Disease, Epidemic Tremor, Erysipelas, Favus, Fowl Cholera, Fowl Pox, Fowl Typhoid, Infectious Bronchitis, Infectious Laryngotracheitis, Infectious Sinusitis, Infectious Synovitis, Mycosis and Newcastle Disease. V.18 is also most useful to breeders of Rabbits, Cavies, Chinchillas, Mice etc., as it helps to prevent respiratory diseases, (including “Snuffles”) Salmonellosis and many forms of Enteritis


Both V.18 and FAM are Vanodine products. Their composition is very similar. They are both disinfectants which kill viruses, bacteria and fungus. So what is the difference between the two? The difference is strength.

FAM is a stronger version of V.18. Great for large animal enclosures and heavily soiled cages. FAM is still gentle enough to be used in hatcheries but also strong enough to disinfect heavily soiled cages, substraits and kennels.

How do the products work?
Both products contain surfactants which allow them to work through dirt and grime and iodine which disinfects as the products clean. FAM contains more surfactants, which are the most expensive part of the ingredients. BUT more surfactants mean you get a much bigger "bang for your buck". With more surfactants, the ingredients can be in stronger amounts but still remain safe for the animal. Surfactants also allow the solution to remain effective longer as it works its way through dirt and organic material. The balance of ingredients in both products control the Iodine as it disperses in order to continue disinfection even in the presences of dirt, blood, feces and other organic material.

Overall FAM will work stronger, longer and better on soiled surfaces. This makes it preferrable for larger animals. V.18 is gentler on surfaces and works great for small animal enclosures. Both products disinfect but you can choose what is right for your situation and disinfection needs.