Kirkland and Cascade dishwashing detergents use Benzotriazole which is not approved by the FDA, is false.

Social media users have raised concerns that benzotriazole, a chemical used in some dishwasher detergents and pods, is not approved by the FDA for use in food-contact products. This chemical is also known to cause serious health issues in humans.

However, Fact Crescendo found the claim to be false. Benzotriazole is an FDA approved chemical and used in many food-contact products. The FDA however set an upper limit of this chemical to limit its exposure. 

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Fact Check- 

First, we checked the list of ingredients used in both Kirkland and Cascade dishwashers. We found that while Benzitriazole is used in Cascade dishwashers, there is no mention of the ingredient in Kirkland Ultra Shine dishwasher packs. 

Is Benxotriazole Not Approved By The FDA For Food Contact?

As per the information available on the FDA’s website, benzotriazole is included in the list of substances that may be used in surface lubricant for the manufacture of metallic articles that will come in contact with foods. It is permitted to use with the condition that the total residual lubricant remaining on the finished metal surface must not exceed 0.015 milligram per square inch of the food-contact surface. 

The presence of benzotriazole in the FDA regulation means that it is authorized for specific food-contact product manufacturing. The FDA considers the use of the ingredient acceptable when the residue is within the established limits. 

The German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (IKW) published a statement on the safety of Benzotriazole used in automatic dishwasher detergents. This chemical is added in the detergent to protect the silverware. It prevents silver cutlery and other silver items from becoming tarnished during washing. The amount of benzotriazole used in the detergents is very low and has been in use for many years. 

According to IKW, toxicological studies and safety assessments show that the small amounts used in dishwasher detergents do not pose a health risk to consumers when the products are used as intended. After the dishwasher cycle, only tiny traces remain on dishes and cutlery, resulting in extremely low exposure. 

On the contrary, according to a report by the National Institute of Health, Benzotriazoles used in some dishwasher detergents have been found in rivers, wastewater, and drinking water in the UK. The study suggests that dishwasher tablets and powders may be one of the main sources of these chemicals entering the environment. The long-term effect of this chemical on humans and wildlife is still not conclusive due to lack of sufficient information. 

Conclusion: 

Fact Crescendo found the claim to be false. The chemical Benzotriazole is well approved by the FDA for use in substances categorized as food-contact. The FDA, however, set an upper limit of this chemical to limit its exposure.