Lemi Shine Dishwashing Detergent

A powerful enzyme-based dishwasher detergent pod featuring oxygen bleach and biodegradable chelating agents for heavy-duty cleaning.

Performance Rating: 4.6

This formulation represents a top-tier cleaning profile. It combines a dual enzyme system (Protease and Amylase) to break down proteins and starches with a robust oxygen-based bleaching system (Sodium Carbonate Peroxide activated by TAED), ensuring effective stain removal even at lower temperatures. The inclusion of Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate (MGDA) and Sodium Citrate provides powerful, modern water softening capabilities without phosphates, while Zinc Citrate and Sodium Metasilicate serve as corrosion inhibitors to protect glassware and metals from clouding.

Safety Rating: 3.7

The product is phosphate-free and utilizes biodegradable chelating agents (MGDA, Citrate), which significantly reduces its environmental footprint compared to older formulations. However, ingredients like Sodium Carbonate Peroxide and Sodium Metasilicate are concentrated skin and eye irritants, posing standard safety risks associated with concentrated detergent pods if the Polyvinyl Alcohol film is compromised. The presence of generic Fragrance may trigger sensitivities in some users.

Final Rating: 4.3

This is a highly effective dishwasher detergent that balances premium cleaning performance with responsible chemical choices. The formula covers all bases: grease cutting, stain bleaching, enzyme digestion, and hard water management. While it retains the standard chemical hazards of concentrated detergents, the switch to eco-friendlier builders like MGDA makes it a superior choice in the category.

Verdict

This product formulation represents a robust and modern approach to automatic dishwashing, combining dual-enzyme technology with strong oxidative cleaning agents. The inclusion of both Protease and Amylase enzymes suggests that this detergent is well-equipped to tackle the two most common types of stubborn food residue: protein structures like dried egg or meat, and starchy deposits such as pasta or potatoes. These biological catalysts work in tandem with Sodium Carbonate Peroxide, an oxygen-based bleach that releases hydrogen peroxide to lift tough stains like coffee or tea without the harshness of chlorine.

To ensure the bleach functions effectively even at lower wash temperatures, the formulation includes TAED, a bleach activator. This makes the product a suitable choice for energy-saving eco-cycles, as it allows the oxidative agents to perform earlier in the wash cycle. Beyond the primary cleaning agents, the structural integrity of the formula relies on robust builders. Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Citrate act as water softeners, preventing limescale buildup and ensuring the surfactants can operate freely without being bound by hard water minerals. The presence of Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate, a strong and biodegradable chelating agent, indicates a move away from traditional phosphates, making this an environmentally conscious choice regarding waterway eutrophication.

The cleaning action is further supported by Alcohol Ethoxylate, a non-ionic surfactant that helps wet surfaces and emulsify grease, ensuring that oily residues are washed away rather than redeposited. The addition of Zinc Citrate is a thoughtful touch, likely added to protect glassware from etching and corrosion over repeated washes. However, consumers should be aware of the chemical intensity required for such effectiveness. Sodium Metasilicate is a highly alkaline compound that boosts cleaning power but can be corrosive if handled directly.

Furthermore, the inclusion of generic Fragrance may be a concern for those with chemical sensitivities, as scent components are common contact allergens. The pod itself is encased in Polyvinyl Alcohol, a water-soluble film that dissolves during the wash, providing convenience and pre-measured dosage. In summary, this detergent offers a comprehensive cleaning profile suitable for heavy-duty loads, balancing aggressive stain removal with modern protections for machine parts and glassware.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Cleaning Agents, Builders & Alkalis / 清洁剂、助洗剂和碱性剂

🧪 SODIUM CARBONATE / 碳酸钠

Purpose: Alkalinity builder and water softener.

Concerns: Can be irritating to eyes and skin if handled directly.

Notes: Commonly known as washing soda.

🧪 SODIUM CITRATE / 柠檬酸钠

Purpose: Chelating agent that softens water to improve cleaning performance.

Concerns: Generally safe and non-toxic.

Notes: An eco-friendly alternative to phosphates.

🧪 Alcohol Ethoxylate / 醇乙氧基化物

Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant responsible for cutting through grease and drying.

Concerns: Some variants can be toxic to aquatic life; usually biodegradable.

Notes: Helps prevent spotting on dishes.

🧪 Sodium Metasilicate / 偏硅酸钠

Purpose: Provides alkalinity and protects metal machine parts from corrosion.

Concerns: Corrosive and irritating in concentrated form.

Notes: Helps in saponifying fats.

🧪 Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate / 甲基甘氨酸二乙酸三钠

Purpose: Strong chelating agent that binds calcium and magnesium ions.

Concerns: Low concern; generally considered safe.

Notes: A biodegradable alternative to EDTA and NTA.

📁 Bleaching System / 漂白系统

🧪 Sodium Carbonate Peroxide / 过碳酸钠

Purpose: Releases hydrogen peroxide to bleach stains and sanitize.

Concerns: Oxidizer; irritating to eyes and skin.

Notes: Also known as Oxygen Bleach.

🧪 TAED / 四乙酰乙二胺

Purpose: Bleach activator that allows peroxide to work at lower temperatures.

Concerns: Generally considered low risk.

Notes: Essential for effective cleaning in eco/short cycles.

📁 Enzymes / 酶制剂

🧪 Protease Enzyme / 蛋白酶

Purpose: Breaks down protein-based stains like egg, meat, and dairy.

Concerns: Can cause respiratory sensitization if inhaled in dust form.

Notes: Biologically active cleaning agent.

🧪 Amylase Enzyme / 淀粉酶

Purpose: Breaks down starch-based stains like pasta, rice, and potatoes.

Concerns: Can cause respiratory sensitization if inhaled.

Notes: Works synergistically with protease.

📁 Polymers & Protectants / 聚合物与保护剂

🧪 Polyvinyl Alcohol / 聚乙烯醇

Purpose: Water-soluble film that encases the liquid/powder pod.

Concerns: Generally safe, though biodegradability in specific conditions is debated.

Notes: Dissolves completely in water.

🧪 Polyitaconic Acid / 聚衣康酸

Purpose: Anti-scalant polymer that prevents mineral deposits.

Concerns: Low concern.

Notes: A bio-based polymer alternative to polyacrylates.

🧪 Zinc citrate / 柠檬酸锌

Purpose: Glass protection agent.

Concerns: Zinc compounds can be toxic to aquatic life in high concentrations.

Notes: Prevents clouding and corrosion of glassware.

🧪 Polyalkylene Glycol / 聚亚烷基二醇

Purpose: Anti-foaming agent and processing aid.

Concerns: Low toxicity.

Notes: Controls suds to maintain pump pressure.

📁 Solvents, Fillers & Processing Aids / 溶剂、填充剂与加工助剂

🧪 SODIUM SULFATE / 硫酸钠

Purpose: Bulking agent/filler and processing aid.

Concerns: Low concern; inert.

Notes: Helps powder flow freely.

🧪 Propylene Glycol / 丙二醇

Purpose: Solvent and enzyme stabilizer.

Concerns: Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS).

Notes: Helps stabilize liquid components.

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Solvent and humectant.

Concerns: Safe and non-toxic.

Notes: Often used to plasticize the PVA film.

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: Solvent.

Concerns: None.

Notes: Present in liquid sections or residual moisture.

🧪 Amphoteric Modified Starch / 两性改性淀粉

Purpose: Binder and disintegrant.

Concerns: Low concern.

Notes: Helps the tablet hold shape but break apart quickly in water.

📁 Additives / 添加剂

🧪 Fragrance / 香精

Purpose: Provides a pleasant scent.

Concerns: Common cause of contact dermatitis or allergies.

Notes: Exact chemical composition is usually proprietary.