Ingredient
Proprietary fatty alcohol alkoxylate
What is Proprietary fatty alcohol alkoxylate?
Proprietary fatty alcohol alkoxylates are a type of surfactant, which are compounds that help reduce the surface tension between two substances. These are typically made by reacting fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide or other alkoxylating agents, resulting in a nonionic surfactant.
In dishwasher products, they are used for their ability to enhance the cleaning power by helping water spread evenly and penetrate surfaces. Scientific data on health impacts are not well-documented, but they are generally considered safe for use in household cleaning products.
When you see this ingredient on a label, it usually indicates a product aiming to improve cleaning efficiency, particularly in automatic dishwashing formulations.
Commonly found in: Dishwasher detergents, Cleaning products, Industrial cleaners
Surfactants like proprietary fatty alcohol alkoxylates are generally recognized as safe for use in cleaning products and are not regulated as food additives.
Research on the environmental impact of surfactants is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential aquatic toxicity at high concentrations.
Fatty alcohols can be derived from either plant or animal sources, so the vegan status may depend on the specific formulation used.
Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database
Scout's take
Fatty alcohol alkoxylates are surfactants derived from natural fats and oils, which help to remove dirt and oil effectively. They are generally considered to have low toxicity and are biodegradable.
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