Mouthwash

Raw materials

1. Water (a diluent, making up over 50% of the entire formula)

2. Alcohol (a diluent typically used in up to 20% of the formula)

3. Antibacterial agent such as parachlormetacresol (chlorinated phenol) or hexachloraphene (substantive to the mucous membrane which makes it ideal for longer lasting formulas) or quatemary compounds (used because of their non-toxic and non-irritant nature and is also effective against plaque) or thymol (obtained from volatile oils, is used at low concentrations and in conjunction with other ingredients)

4. Colouring (most common colors, blue and green)

5. Flavoring such as peppermint or menthol or methyl salicylate or eugenol

6. Synthetic detergent (gives extra foaming and cleansing action)

Process

1. Water is specially treated to remove various particles and ions which might impact flavor. Water treated as such is called deionized water. The sources of water vary, coming from reserves such as underground wells, lakes, and rivers.

2. Mouthwash is made via a batch process in an area of the manufacturing plant called compounding. Here operators, called compounders, make batches of 2,000-3,000 gal (7,571-11,356 L) of mouthwash following specific formula instructions.

Product

Mouthwash

Used for

Oral hygine

Production facility

Mount Gambier, SA

Export

Port-Novo, Benin