Researchers have found that a common ingredient in dishwasher rinse aids may damage the intestinal lining and contribute to chronic health issues. The study, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, shows that alcohol ethoxylates found in dishwasher rinse aids can impair the gut barrier even at highly diluted concentrations.
The gut barrier is a critical interface between the body and the outside world. It allows nutrients to be absorbed while keeping out potential toxins and allergens. Damage to this barrier has been linked to the development of numerous chronic diseases, including food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease.
In the study, scientists exposed gut epithelial cells to dishwasher detergent and rinse aid at concentrations typically used in professional and household dishwashers. They found that while the detergent did not cause harm, the rinse aid led to cell death and increased gut barrier permeability. Genetic analysis revealed the rinse aid triggered inflammatory pathways and impaired cell adhesion even at a 1:40,000 dilution.
Further experiments identified alcohol ethoxylates as the main component in rinse aid responsible for the toxic effects. Alcohol ethoxylates are widely used surfactants in laundry detergents, hand soaps, and other cleaning products.
The researchers note that professional dishwashers, in particular, may leave relatively high concentrations of rinse aid residue on dishes compared to household machines. Restaurants, hotels, and other commercial kitchens frequently utilizing such dishwashers may inadvertently expose patrons to substances that undermine gut health.
While more research is needed, the authors recommend further evaluating the health impacts of alcohol ethoxylates at concentrations present in rinse aids. In the meantime, choosing rinse aids without this ingredient or handwashing dishes are two ways to reduce exposure and protect the gut barrier. Overall, this study provides insight into an underappreciated factor contributing to the increased prevalence of chronic inflammatory diseases in recent decades.
