Researchers find a surprising link between dishwashers and chronic illnesses

A recent study by researchers at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), linked with the University of Zurich (UZH), has unveiled the harmful effects of an ingredient in commercial rinse agents on the gastrointestinal tract. This discovery has significant public health implications, as the toxic substance may initiate various chronic diseases.

Commercial dishwashers, commonly used in settings such as restaurants and barracks, wash plates, glasses, and cutlery through a two-step process. The first step involves a 60-second high-pressure cycle with hot water and detergent. The second step is another 60-second cycle where water and a rinse agent are applied.

The study found that many dishwashers lack an extra wash cycle to remove leftover rinse aid, allowing potentially toxic substances to dry on the dishes. When these dishes are reused, the dried chemical residue can easily enter the gastrointestinal tract.

The research, led by Cezmi Akdis, UZH professor of experimental allergology and immunology and director of SIAF, examined the impact of components in commercial-grade detergents and rinse agents on the gut's epithelial barrier. This barrier, a layer of cells lining the intestinal tract, regulates what enters the body.

Defects in this barrier are linked to conditions such as food allergies, gastritis, diabetes, obesity, liver cirrhosis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorders, chronic depression, and Alzheimer’s disease.

The study utilized human intestinal organoids and intestinal cells on microchips, a cutting-edge technology that forms a three-dimensional clump of cells resembling the human intestinal epithelium. Using various biomolecular methods, the team analyzed the effects of commercial detergents and rinse aids on these cells, diluting the substances to concentrations that would be present on dry dishes (1:10,000 to 1:40,000).

The results revealed that high doses of rinse agents killed the intestinal epithelial cells, while lower doses made the barrier more permeable. This increased permeability was accompanied by the activation of several genes and cell signaling proteins that could provoke inflammatory responses. A more in-depth analysis identified alcohol ethoxylates, a component of the rinse agent, as the culprit.

The researchers warn that this effect could lead to the gradual destruction of the gut's epithelial layer, potentially triggering numerous chronic diseases. Akdis emphasizes the need for public awareness and immediate action: “It is important to inform the public about this risk, since alcohol ethoxylates seem to be commonly used in commercial dishwashers.”

The connection between defective epithelial barriers and chronic illnesses has been explored in many studies. Akdis, who has over 20 years of research experience in this field, explains that various additives and chemicals encountered in daily life can damage these layers. “We assume that defective epithelial barriers play a role in triggering the onset of two billion chronic illnesses,” he says. This correlation is supported by the epithelial barrier hypothesis, a concept Akdis has contributed to significantly.

The findings underscore the importance of addressing the risks associated with commercial dishwashers, which are prevalent in many environments. The toxic effects of rinse agents on the gastrointestinal tract highlight the need for immediate public health interventions to mitigate the potential onset of chronic diseases.

These findings call for urgent public health measures to protect individuals from the harmful effects of these substances, particularly given their widespread use in dishwashers. The research highlights the critical role of the epithelial barrier in maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases, urging further exploration and mitigation of risks associated with everyday chemical exposures.

The use of automatic dishwashers in homes has become a staple for convenience, but there are potential health concerns associated with them. While they save time and water compared to handwashing, certain risks could affect both short-term and long-term health.

Dishwasher detergents often contain harsh chemicals, such as phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances, which can leave residue on dishes. When ingested over time, even trace amounts of these chemicals could contribute to health problems. Some studies suggest that long-term exposure to these chemicals might lead to irritation of the digestive system or disrupt hormonal balances.

Automatic dishwashers create warm, moist environments that are ideal for microbial growth. Bacteria and fungi, such as Escherichia coli and Candida parapsilosis, can thrive on the rubber seals, filters, and crevices inside dishwashers. These microorganisms can potentially contaminate clean dishes if the appliance is not regularly cleaned and maintained. If ingested, these pathogens could lead to infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

During the drying phase, dishwashers release steam that could carry volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the detergents used. VOCs, such as formaldehyde, are known for their potential respiratory and carcinogenic effects. Prolonged exposure to VOCs from frequent dishwasher use may exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma.

If plastic dishes or containers are cleaned in a dishwasher at high temperatures, there is a risk that harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA), can leach from the plastic. BPA has been linked to various health issues, including endocrine disruption, which can lead to reproductive health problems.

For people with chemical sensitivities or allergies, the residues left on dishes from detergents or the dishwasher's own plastic components can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms can include skin irritation, headaches, or respiratory issues after consuming food or using dishes cleaned in the dishwasher.

While dishwashers offer many conveniences, they can expose households to chemicals and microorganisms that may pose health risks.

Ismail Ogulur, Yagiz Pat, Tamer Aydin, Duygu Yazici, Beate Rückert, Yaqi Penq, Juno Kim, Urszula Radzikowska, Patrick Westermann, Milena Sokolowska, Raja Dhir, Mubeccel Akdis, Kari Nadeau, Cezmi A. Akdis. Gut epithelial barrier damage caused by dishwasher detergents and rinse aids. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

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