Sunlight’s RhamnoClean technology has revolutionized the formulation of their hand dishwashing liquid. Global R&D Dishwash Director, Judisha Naidoo, shares insights into this innovative technology and the premium benefits it brings. Unilever’s dedicated scientists have spent years developing a superior Sunlight dishwashing liquid, using 100% plant-based, renewable, and biodegradable cleaning ingredients. This effort has led to the creation of a patented breakthrough: RhamnoClean.
We interviewed Judisha Naidoo to delve into the details of this revolutionary innovation.
What is RhamnoClean?
Traditionally, hand dishwashing products rely on surfactants—chemicals that produce foam and remove grease and dirt. However, these surfactants often contain high levels of petrochemicals. Sunlight aimed to develop an alternative that could match the performance of their top products while offering additional benefits, using renewable ingredients.
In 2017, in collaboration with Evonik, a global biotechnology leader, Unilever developed rhamnolipid—a 100% natural, biodegradable, and renewable biosurfactant that delivers exceptional cleaning performance. This technology was first introduced in Chile in 2019 with the Quix dishwashing liquid, marking the debut of rhamnolipids in a cleaning product. After successful pilots in Vietnam (2021) and in Indonesia and Thailand, Unilever is now launching RhamnoClean technology, powered by rhamnolipid, across the Sunlight Plus premium range.
To support this innovation, Evonik has established a cutting-edge production facility at their factory in Slovenská Ľupča, Slovakia—the world’s first industrial-scale plant dedicated to producing rhamnolipids.
What insights led to the development of RhamnoClean technology?
Extensive research revealed that consumers increasingly seek differentiated products that don’t compromise on performance. Rhamnolipid addresses the needs of consumers who prefer natural ingredients without sacrificing cleanliness. Safety is also a significant concern, especially for an ageing population in key Sunlight markets. Consumers worry about chemical residues on dishes and seek products free from harsh chemicals. RhamnoClean’s natural ingredients make it safe even for washing baby dishes.
Additionally, consumers are concerned about contamination from dirty sponges. The Sunlight premium range is the only dishwashing product offering 24-hour protection against the return of harmful bacteria and a seven-day shield against the growth of fungi in sponges.
Moreover, many people dislike how dishwashing can dry out or irritate their skin, particularly those with sensitive skin. RhamnoClean’s formula has passed rigorous dermatological testing, ensuring that it is gentle on the skin, leaving hands moisturized after use.
Where has RhamnoClean been launched?
Sunlight BioCare Nature, the flagship variant, is being launched across all markets. Additionally, other variants tailored to local needs and trends are available in specific regions. So far, RhamnoClean has been introduced in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, where the premium segment is rapidly growing, with Sunlight leading the premium market.
