CAS#: 2634-33-5
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) numbers are unique identifiers assigned to every chemical substance, ensuring accurate identification across the industry.
What is it?
Benzisothiazolinone (BIT) is a preservative and antimicrobial agent used to protect liquid detergent formulations from microbial contamination during storage and use. This ingredient belongs to the isothiazolinone family of preservatives, which are widely used in water-based cleaning products to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold that could degrade product quality or pose health risks.
What does it do?
Benzisothiazolinone functions as a broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial growth in liquid laundry detergent formulations. When you open and close a detergent bottle repeatedly, and when small amounts of water or moisture enter the container, conditions become favorable for bacterial and fungal growth. BIT works by disrupting the cellular processes of microorganisms, preventing them from multiplying and contaminating the product. This preservative action ensures that every dose of detergent remains fresh, effective, and safe to use throughout the product's shelf life—even after the bottle has been opened and exposed to bathroom or laundry room conditions for weeks or months.
How is it made?
Benzisothiazolinone is synthesized through chemical processes that combine benzene derivatives with isothiazole ring structures. The manufacturing process involves controlled reactions that create the characteristic five-membered ring structure containing sulfur and nitrogen atoms, which gives BIT its antimicrobial properties. Modern production methods ensure high purity and consistent performance in preservative applications.
Ingredient Safety Profile
Benzisothiazolinone is recognized as a safe ingredient by leading environmental and health organizations when used at appropriate concentrations:
- EPA Safer Choice Approved Ingredient: Benzisothiazolinone meets EPA's criteria for safer chemical ingredients when used at approved levels
- Recognized by EWG: Benzisothiazolinone is acknowledged by the Environmental Working Group's safer ingredient standards at appropriate use levels
- Biodegradable: Breaks down in wastewater treatment systems
- Rinses Away Completely: Does not remain on fabrics after proper rinsing
- Essential for Product Safety: Prevents contamination that could pose greater health risks
Important Note: While Benzisothiazolinone itself is recognized as a safe ingredient by EPA Safer Choice and EWG standards when used appropriately, Heritage Park Activewear Laundry Detergent is not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED as a complete product formulation.
What product is this ingredient in?
* Not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED