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Stewardship Tip – NPE Free Detergent
By Arshia | August 9, 2011
In the United States, the nonionic surfactant nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) belongs to a class of compounds called alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs). NPEs are the preferred surfactant in many detergents because of their properties as outstanding dispersants, wetting agents, and emulsifiers. They work well with little need for other additives. They are also inexpensive. NPEs break down into nonylphenols in the environment.
Nonylphenols can act as endocrine disruptors. According to H. L. Schoenfuss, low doses of nonylphenols primed male fathead minnows for breeding competition; higher exposures, though, inhibited their breeding behavior.
It makes sense to select detergents that do not use NPEs as surfactants. When choosing detergents at the store, avoid products that contain the following:
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptylphenol
p-Nonylphenol, branched
Here’s the rub. Detergent manufacturers are not required by law to disclose their ingredients.
Many manufacturers, however, are taking responsibility and listing the ingredients in their products. Many, moreover, state, on the label, that their detergents are free of NPEs.
Take the time to examine the label of your detergent before you buy. We think that it is worthwhile to reward manufacturers who state what is in their product. We feel that it is doubly important reward those who help to keep nonylphenols out of our environment by offering NPE free detergent.
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