Cascade Complete Dishwasher Pods Action Pacs Dishwasher Detergent Dishwasher Tabs Fresh 27 Count
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dishwasher detergent contains beneficial enzymes like amylase and subtilisin, which enhance cleaning power and are environmentally friendly. However, the presence of synthetic fragrances, which can contain allergens, and the overall high level of processing reduce its score. The product lacks harsh surfactants like SLS, but the inclusion of synthetic components and fragrances impacts its environmental and indoor safety profile.
Key ingredients 19
Amylase EnzymeGood
Amylase enzyme is a plant-based enzyme that helps break down starches in food residues. It is effective in enhancing the cleaning power of detergents. Enzymes are generally considered environmentally friendly.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with amylase enzymes in cleaning products.
Benefits
Amylase enzymes improve cleaning efficiency and are biodegradable.
Sodium Carbonate PeroxideGood
Sodium carbonate peroxide is an oxygen-based bleaching agent. It helps remove stains and disinfect surfaces. It breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash, making it environmentally friendly.
Risks
Can cause irritation to skin and eyes if not handled properly.
Benefits
Effective stain remover and disinfectant with minimal environmental impact.
SubtilisinGood
Subtilisin is a protease enzyme that breaks down protein-based stains. It enhances the cleaning power of detergents by targeting food residues. Enzymes like subtilisin are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves cleaning efficiency and is biodegradable.
BenzotriazoleNeutral
Benzotriazole is used as a corrosion inhibitor in cleaning products. It helps protect metal parts in dishwashers from corrosion. While effective, it is not biodegradable.
Risks
Benzotriazole can be persistent in the environment and may pose ecological risks.
Benefits
It helps extend the life of metal components by preventing corrosion.
ColorantsNeutral
Colorants are added to products for aesthetic purposes. They do not contribute to the cleaning efficacy. The impact of colorants depends on their chemical composition.
Risks
Some synthetic colorants may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Colorants can make products more visually appealing.
Copolymer Of Acrylic And Sulphonic AcidsNeutral
This copolymer acts as a dispersing agent in detergents. It helps prevent redeposition of soil on dishes. It is a synthetic polymer with no direct cleaning action.
Risks
Synthetic polymers can contribute to microplastic pollution.
Benefits
It enhances the overall cleaning performance by keeping soils suspended.
Copolymer Of Acrylic Maleic And Sulphonic AcidsNeutral
This copolymer is used to improve the stability and performance of detergents. It helps in binding calcium and magnesium ions. It is a synthetic compound with no direct cleaning action.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to its synthetic nature.
Benefits
Improves detergent performance by preventing mineral deposits.
Dipropylene GlycolNeutral
Dipropylene glycol is used as a solvent in cleaning products. It helps dissolve other ingredients and maintain product consistency. It is generally considered safe in cleaning applications.
Risks
Inhalation or skin contact in large amounts may cause irritation.
Benefits
It aids in the formulation of stable and effective cleaning products.
GlycerinNeutral
Glycerin is used as a humectant and solvent in cleaning products. It helps maintain moisture and consistency. It is generally considered safe and non-toxic.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin in cleaning products.
Benefits
Glycerin is biodegradable and helps maintain product stability.
Isotridecanol EthoxylatedNeutral
Isotridecanol ethoxylated is a nonionic surfactant used for its cleaning properties. It helps break down and remove grease and dirt. It is a synthetic compound with moderate biodegradability.
Risks
May cause skin irritation upon prolonged contact.
Benefits
Effective in removing oily and greasy residues.
PEG/PPG/Propylheptyl EtherNeutral
This compound is used as a surfactant and emulsifier in cleaning products. It helps mix water and oil-based ingredients. It is a synthetic ingredient with moderate environmental impact.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation with prolonged exposure.
Benefits
Enhances the cleaning power by improving ingredient solubility.
Polyvinyl Alcohol PolymerNeutral
Polyvinyl alcohol polymer is used as a film-forming agent in detergent pods. It helps encapsulate the detergent for controlled release. It is a synthetic polymer with limited biodegradability.
Risks
May contribute to microplastic pollution if not properly disposed.
Benefits
Allows for convenient and precise dosing of detergent.
Sodium CarbonateNeutral
Sodium carbonate is used as a water softener and cleaning agent. It helps enhance the effectiveness of detergents by adjusting pH. It is a naturally occurring compound with low toxicity.
Risks
Can cause skin and eye irritation in concentrated forms.
Benefits
Improves cleaning efficiency by softening water.
Sodium SilicateNeutral
Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor and detergent builder. It helps protect metal parts and enhance cleaning performance. It is a mineral-based compound with low toxicity.
Risks
May cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
Benefits
Prevents corrosion and improves detergent efficiency.
Sodium SulfateNeutral
Sodium sulfate is used as a filler and processing aid in detergents. It helps maintain product consistency and flowability. It is a naturally occurring compound with low toxicity.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risks in cleaning products.
Benefits
Contributes to the bulk and stability of the detergent.
Transitional Metal CatalystNeutral
Transitional metal catalysts are used to enhance chemical reactions in detergents. They help improve the efficiency of cleaning agents. The specific environmental impact depends on the metal used.
Risks
Potential environmental concerns depending on the metal type.
Benefits
Increases the effectiveness of cleaning formulations.
Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl AlaninateNeutral
This compound is used as a chelating agent in detergents. It helps bind metal ions and improve cleaning performance. It is a synthetic ingredient with moderate environmental impact.
Risks
May cause skin irritation in concentrated forms.
Benefits
Enhances cleaning efficiency by binding hard water ions.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. It helps dissolve and distribute cleaning agents. Water is essential for the formulation of liquid cleaning products.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cleaning products.
Benefits
Acts as a universal solvent and is non-toxic.
FragrancesBad
Fragrances are added to cleaning products to provide a pleasant scent. They are often synthetic and can contain allergens. Fragrances do not contribute to cleaning efficacy.
Risks
Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and may contain phthalates.
Benefits
They enhance the sensory experience of using the product.
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