Possible adverse reactions to an enzyme-containing washing powder

Following the launch of an enzyme (alcalase) containing washing powder, the manufacturers received numerous complaints from domestic users suggesting that it was responsible either for the precipitation of a rash or the exacerbation of a pre-existing rash. The 255 individuals living in London postal districts who complained to the manufacturers were contacted: 80 of them agreed to be investigated by patch and prick testing, and to a user test involving the double blind wearing of vests washed with the product. The results failed to substantiate that the enzyme containing washing powder was responsible for any dermatological problem.