Hidden Health Risks in Commercial Dishwashers

A study published in a journal on allergies and clinical immunology has found that professional dishwashers, used predominantly in restaurants, may pose a health risk. According to the research, residues from rinse agents found on dishes after cleaning in commercial dishwashers can damage the protective layer of the intestine, potentially leading to the development of chronic illnesses.

The study was conducted by researchers from the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, affiliated with the University of Zurich. The researchers warned about the potential harm from commercial dishwashers due to a component called alcohol ethoxylate found in commercial rinse agents. This component can severely impact our digestive systems.

Restaurants, schools, and crowded places typically use commercial dishwashers in the following way: washing with hot water and detergents, followed by rinsing and drying with water and rinse agents. Professor Cemi Akdis, the study's author, states, "What is particularly concerning is that many machines do not have an additional rinse cycle to remove residual rinse agents. This means potentially toxic substances remain on the dishes, where they dry in place. There is a high chance that these chemical residues will make their way into the intestines the next time the dishes are used."

Akdis added, "The effect we found might mark the beginning of the destruction of the intestinal epithelial layer, triggering the onset of numerous chronic diseases." He emphasized, "It's important to inform the public of this risk because alcohol ethoxylates are seemingly widespread in use in commercial dishwashers."