How to Select an Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent for Your Food Service Operation

Hotels, restaurants, and commercial kitchens are increasingly adopting green cleaning practices for several reasons: 

Environmental impact: minimize the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. 

Health and safety: select formulas and systems that are safer for both guests and staff.  

Cost savings and operational efficiency: include water and energy usage reduction in the cleaning processes. 

Attractiveness: consumers are aware of climate change and prefer brands that are aligned with their values. 

Regulatory compliance: stay ahead of ever more stringent requirements. 

Choosing the right eco-friendly dishwasher detergent is essential for food service operators embracing green cleaning practices. Learn how to evaluate detergents based on certifications, biodegradability, and performance, and discover why SURE Machine Ware Wash is the perfect sustainable solution for your operation. 

What to Look for in an Eco-friendly Dishwashing Detergent 

Eco certifications and sustainable formulas to consider 

There are several eco certifications that are widely recognized and used in Europe.  

These include for example: 

• EU Ecolabel™: The EU Ecolabel is a voluntary label that is awarded to products and services that meet specific environmental criteria. This label is valid in all EU member states, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.  
• Nordic Swan Ecolabel is a Nordic ecolabel that is awarded to products and services that meet strict environmental and quality criteria. This label is valid in all Nordic countries, including Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.  
• Cradle to Cradle™ is awarded to products and services that are designed for a circular economy, meaning that they are designed to be reused, recycled, or composted. This certification is valid in Europe and other regions and is recognized by many leading companies and organizations. 

It’s important to note that while these certifications are valid in Europe, they may have different levels of recognition and acceptance in different countries. It’s important to do research and look for certifications that are recognized by the specific country or region where the products will be used. 

Why Biodegradability Tests Matter in an Eco-friendly Detergent 

The biodegradability of a detergent needs to be proven by specific tests. Ingredients are assessed following the OECD301 guidelines for testing of chemicals. Tests are performed by external independent laboratories.  

Ecolabels such as Cradle to Cradle™ include specific criteria for biodegradability. 

Packaging  

Reduced packaging and weight mean savings from transport and storage. Packaging design also allows a safe handling of the detergent. Recyclable packaging contributes to circularity. 

Detergent Performance 

Effective cleaning and drying of dishes without leaving spots or residue means no need to rewash. This impacts directly water and energy consumption and improves operational efficiency. 

SURE™ Machine Ware Wash, an Eco-friendly Detergent and Rinse Aid Combination 

SURE Machine Ware Wash is the latest addition to Diversey eco-certified, plant-based range. This new detergent and rinse aid system is tailored for commercial dishwashing operations, effective across all water hardness levels, including challenging hard water (up to 10DH).  

Superior Dishwashing Results with More Sustainable Formulations 

Diversey new SURE Machine Ware Wash products are certified by the EU Ecolabel (EU Flower) and Cradle2Cradle (Reference 1: SURE Machine Dishwash Rinse Aid - C2C Gold ) reflecting their high environmental standards. They are plant-based and formulated to minimise environmental impact while delivering top-tier cleaning performance.  

The ingredients in SURE Machine Ware Wash products are readily biodegradable complying with OECD301 guidelines. They have been independently assessed and tested by external laboratories, proving to be readily biodegradable. The ingredients are "naturally derived" materials, and they break down into naturally occurring materials that support a sustainable growth and cycle.  

Our raw materials are produced with naturally occurring minerals and by-products of the agro food industry, such as sugar beet, maize, straw bran, wheat bran, and coconut. We do not use land to grow specific crops for our chemicals but reuse resources that would otherwise be wasted, promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.   

Highly Performing Dishwashing Combination 

SURE Machine Dishwash Detergent: This heavy-duty alkaline liquid detergent is suitable for single and multi-tank ware washing machines. It effectively removes fats and dried-on foods and contains powerful scale control agents that prevent scaling even in hard water conditions. 

Key Benefits: 

• Quickly removes grease and dried-on food 
• Prevents scaling even in medium to hard water conditions 
• Highly effective due to its concentrated formulation 
• EU Ecolabel certified 
• Cradle to Cradle Material Health Certified Gold 

SURE Machine Dishwash Rinse Aid: A concentrated low foam machine rinse additive with scale control properties, ensuring rapid and streak-free drying for spotless results. 

Key Benefits: 

• Rapid and streak-free drying 
• Suitable for hard water due to scale control agents 
• EU Ecolabel certified 
• Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold 

Safe and Eco-friendly packaging 

SURE Machine Warewash products are available in SafePack [LINK to SafePack page] a unique packaging system designed to make automatic dishwashing safer and more efficient. SafePack significantly reduces environmental impact and waste disposal costs. 

Key Benefits of SafePack: 

• Up to 70% reduction in waste volume and up to 45% reduction in weight* 
• Complete safety in use 
• Optimum efficiency and convenience 
• Demonstrating environmental responsibility by reducing contact with the product, preventing mistakes, and minimizing product waste 

* when compared to traditional packaging 

Be Part of the Effort for a Cleaner Future 

We invite you to join us in revolutionising dishwashing with SURE Machine Warewash. By choosing plant-based products with reduced environmental impact, you contribute to a cleaner, greener planet while ensuring that your dishwashing needs are met with professional excellence. SURE Machine Warewash is more than just a cleaning solution; it is a commitment to sustainability and a better future. 

Experience the difference with SURE Machine Warewash Detergent and Rinse Aid. The plant-based choice for a more sustainable future, one dish at a time. 

Let's make a positive impact together!