A recent report by China’s CCTV revealed a concerning presence of formaldehyde in certain dishwashing liquids available on the market. This has raised alarms about potential health risks associated with this common household product.
Subsequent investigations by relevant authorities uncovered that some manufacturers had secretly added excessive amounts of formaldehyde to extend the shelf life of their products. Formaldehyde, a known potential carcinogen, has led to concerns about the safety of dishwashing liquids, with warnings such as “dish soap can cause cancer.”
Choosing the right dishwashing liquid is essential for your health and safety. (Illustrative image)
1. Why do dishwashing liquids contain formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde can be appropriately added to dishwashing liquids as a preservative to extend their shelf life. The “National Food Safety Standard for Detergents” specifies two standards for formaldehyde content in these products. Type A dishwashing liquids, used for cleaning food, should contain less than 0.05% formaldehyde, while Type B, used for washing utensils and containers, can have up to 0.1% formaldehyde. Generally, if the formaldehyde content complies with national regulations, it should not pose significant health risks. Moreover, formaldehyde is water-soluble and volatile, so thorough rinsing during regular use can effectively minimize any potential harm.
2. Can dishwashing liquid residue cause cancer?
Some people believe that using dishwashing liquid leaves residue on dishes and that excessive use can impact human health. But is this true?
The primary ingredient in dishwashing liquids is surfactants, which, while toxic, are not dangerous at any dosage level. When ingested, they are rapidly metabolized by the human body. To induce poisoning, one would have to consume an entire bottle of dishwashing liquid, which is highly unlikely.
Regarding residues, experts have conducted similar experiments, and their findings are reassuring. Typically, after a single wash, the detergent residue meets the basic state requirements. A second wash further reduces the residue, and by the rinsing step, the detergent residue is already ten times lower than the national standard. So, you need not worry excessively about residual issues leading to cancer. Moreover, dishwashing liquids effectively eliminate E. coli and other bacteria from dishes and utensils, reducing bacterial colonies. Additionally, washing with hot water further reduces the microbial load on kitchen utensils, making dishwashing liquids a necessary part of hygiene practices.
The market offers a wide range of dishwashing liquids to choose from. (Illustrative image)
3. For safety, avoid these two types of dishwashing liquids:
– Strongly scented dishwashing liquids: These products often contain chemical pollutants that give off a strong fragrance. They can trigger allergic reactions, so it’s best to avoid them, especially if you have allergies.
– Unbranded or “market-bought” dishwashing liquids: These inexpensive products, commonly found in rural and remote areas, often lack proper manufacturing processes and quality control. They may contain unknown additives that could be harmful to your health.
According to Nguoiduatin
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