Last month I focused on enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that act as natural catalysts to efficiently break down dirt and stains so that they wash way more easily. Our products typically contain several enzyme types to create a unique blend that ensures optimal cleaning and performance. This month, I’ll focus on the story of biotics, which starts with understanding the microbiome.
A microbiome is a community of living organisms concentrated in the same habitat, such as garden soil, your skin and your home’s surfaces. They work best when the microbes within them are balanced, with enough good bacteria to keep the bad bacteria in check.
“Biotics” refers to living or once-living components of a community like plants, microbes, etc. The use of biotic materials is growing in popularity as such materials are usually biodegradable and renewable, and their processing has minimal environmental impact. The term “biotics” includes prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics.
To help reduce chemical load in our homes and on our bodies, Norwex® formulates some household and personal care products with biotics, which harness the advantages of good bacteria in consumer products and provide significant advantages over harmful synthetic chemicals. Biotics, like enzymes, are also much more compatible with the environment as they don’t release phosphates or other impurities.
In cleaning products, biotics and enzymes can work together, helping each other get the job done. When applied to surfaces, enzymes break down soils, stains and odors and then the biotics consume them. As long as soil is present and surfaces are adequately damp, these microscopic “cleaners” multiply, continuing to remove traces of grime and odor from surfaces up to days after being applied. Biotics also help stabilize enzymes in the products.
Check out the products that use enzymes and biotics HERE.
