Cascade Pacs Dishwasher Detergents Fresh Scent 10 Ounce 18 Count
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dishwasher detergent contains beneficial cleaning agents like amylase enzyme and sodium carbonate peroxide, which enhance its cleaning efficiency. However, the presence of synthetic fragrances and colorants, along with other synthetic compounds, raises concerns about potential environmental impact and indoor air quality. The product's processing level and inclusion of these ingredients prevent it from achieving a higher score.
Key ingredients 20
Amylase EnzymeGood
Amylase enzymes are effective in breaking down starches into sugars, which can then be easily washed away. They are commonly used in cleaning products to enhance cleaning efficiency.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with amylase enzymes, though they can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Amylase enzymes are biodegradable and help improve the cleaning power of detergents without harsh chemicals.
Sodium Carbonate PeroxideGood
Sodium carbonate peroxide is a bleaching agent used in cleaning products. It releases oxygen to help remove stains and whiten surfaces.
Risks
It can cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly.
Benefits
It is an effective, environmentally friendly bleaching agent that breaks down into non-toxic byproducts.
SubtilisinGood
Subtilisin is a protease enzyme used in cleaning products to break down protein-based stains. It enhances the cleaning power of detergents.
Risks
There is a risk of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It is biodegradable and effective in removing protein stains without harsh chemicals.
BenzotriazoleNeutral
Benzotriazole is used as a corrosion inhibitor in cleaning products. It helps protect metal surfaces from corrosion during the cleaning process.
Risks
Benzotriazole can be toxic to aquatic life and may cause environmental concerns if not properly managed.
Benefits
It effectively prevents corrosion, extending the life of metal components in dishwashers.
ColorantsNeutral
Colorants are added to cleaning products to provide a visually appealing appearance. They do not contribute to the cleaning efficacy of the product.
Risks
Some synthetic colorants may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
They enhance the aesthetic appeal of the product, which can be important for consumer satisfaction.
Copolymer of Acrylic and Sulphonic AcidsNeutral
This copolymer is used as a dispersing agent in cleaning products. It helps to prevent the redeposition of soil onto surfaces during cleaning.
Risks
There are minimal direct health risks, but environmental persistence can be a concern.
Benefits
It improves the overall cleaning performance by keeping dirt suspended in the wash water.
Copolymer of Acrylic Maleic and Sulphonic AcidsNeutral
This copolymer acts as a dispersant and anti-redeposition agent in detergents. It helps to keep soils suspended in water, preventing them from settling back onto surfaces.
Risks
Environmental persistence and potential aquatic toxicity are concerns with synthetic polymers.
Benefits
It enhances cleaning efficiency by preventing soil redeposition.
Dipropylene GlycolNeutral
Dipropylene glycol is used as a solvent in cleaning products. It helps dissolve other ingredients and maintain product stability.
Risks
It is generally considered safe, but high concentrations can cause skin 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 to maintain moisture and improve the texture of the product.
Risks
Glycerin is generally safe, but excessive use can lead to skin irritation.
Benefits
It is a biodegradable ingredient that helps maintain product consistency.
Isotridecanol EthoxylatedNeutral
Isotridecanol ethoxylated is a nonionic surfactant used in cleaning products. It helps to break down and remove grease and dirt.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation with prolonged exposure.
Benefits
It is effective in removing oily and greasy residues from surfaces.
PEG/PPG/Propylheptyl EtherNeutral
This compound is used as a surfactant and emulsifier in cleaning products. It helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation, and environmental persistence is a concern.
Benefits
It enhances the cleaning power by improving the solubility of different ingredients.
Polyvinyl Alcohol PolymerNeutral
Polyvinyl alcohol polymer is used as a film-forming agent in cleaning products. It helps to encapsulate active ingredients and control their release.
Risks
It is generally safe, but environmental persistence can be a concern.
Benefits
It improves the delivery and effectiveness of active cleaning agents.
Sodium CarbonateNeutral
Sodium carbonate is used as a water softener and pH adjuster in cleaning products. It helps to enhance the cleaning power of detergents.
Risks
High concentrations can cause skin and eye irritation.
Benefits
It is effective in improving the cleaning efficiency by softening water and adjusting pH levels.
Sodium SilicateNeutral
Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor and pH stabilizer in cleaning products. It helps to protect metal surfaces and maintain product stability.
Risks
It can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
Benefits
It enhances the longevity of metal components by preventing corrosion.
Sodium SulfateNeutral
Sodium sulfate is used as a filler and thickening agent in cleaning products. It helps to improve the texture and flow of the product.
Risks
It is generally safe, but excessive exposure can cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It contributes to the consistency and usability of the product.
TolyltriazoleNeutral
Tolyltriazole is used as a corrosion inhibitor in cleaning products. It helps to protect metal surfaces from corrosion during the cleaning process.
Risks
It can be toxic to aquatic life and may pose environmental concerns.
Benefits
It effectively prevents corrosion, extending the life of metal components in dishwashers.
Transition Metal CatalystNeutral
Transition metal catalysts are used to enhance the effectiveness of bleaching agents in cleaning products. They help to accelerate chemical reactions.
Risks
There is a potential for environmental impact if not properly managed.
Benefits
They improve the efficiency of bleaching agents, leading to better cleaning results.
Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl AlaninateNeutral
Trisodium dicarboxymethyl alaninate is used as a chelating agent in cleaning products. It helps to bind metal ions and improve cleaning performance.
Risks
It is generally considered safe, but environmental persistence can be a concern.
Benefits
It enhances the cleaning power by preventing metal ion interference.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients in cleaning products. It helps to dissolve and distribute active ingredients.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cleaning products.
Benefits
It is a safe and effective solvent that aids in the formulation of cleaning products.
FragrancesBad
Fragrances are added to cleaning products to provide a pleasant scent. They do not contribute to cleaning efficacy.
Risks
Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and may contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors.
Benefits
They improve the sensory experience of using the product, which can enhance user satisfaction.
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