HALEY R. GERSHON
Beta Analytic, Miami, FL, USA

Abstract

Consumer preference for eco-friendly products is rising. In response, manufacturers are shifting away from the use of petrochemical-derived ingredients in household cleaning products such as laundry detergents, and are moving toward the use of biobased-derived ingredients. This article highlights the need for carbon-14 analysis to measure the amount of biobased content comprising laundry detergent product ingredients. Depending on the percentage of biobased content determined through carbon-14 testing, products may be eligible to receive biobased certifications and eco-labels, which can be displayed on a product’s label.

INTRODUCTION
As eco-friendly initiatives are increasingly widespread, consumers are drawn towards products comprised of biobased ingredients: ingredients comprised of biomass resources such as plant-based or animal-based sources. In response, manufacturers are continuously shifting away from petroleum-based products and are replacing the petrochemical synthetic ingredients with plant-derived alternatives.

Within the household cleaning supplies industry, the preference for biobased laundry detergent thrives as plant-based products are perceived as more compatible with eco-friendly lifestyles. In order for manufacturers to demonstrate their use of biobased ingredients, carbon-14 analysis through third-party laboratories has been a popular option for over a decade. Results from carbon-14 testing allow manufacturers to prove they meet the minimum percentage biobased content required to be eligible for biobased certifications. Globally, biobased certification schemes incentivize the use of biomass-sourced ingredients by enabling manufacturers to label their products with eco-labels.

Plant-based cleaning products ...