From Mr D. J. Morl, MRPharmS
SIR,—I am sure that it makes sense to rinse well after washing up dishes
and cutlery. Whether because of the possibility of food residues adhering to
the surface or for any other good reason, but the idea of harm accruing from
traces of detergent is indeed novel (PJ, September 30, p482).
One of the problems of original thinkers is of course the risk they run of being
taken for cranks. History tells us of many a strange concept that became accepted
truth, a near-spherical Earth for one. No doubt a “flat-earther” would
wish to correct me even today. So, continuing with the idea that detergent may
have a demonstrable effect on our health, how about the obverse of the theory;
that it might just as easily be beneficial? Perhaps in time to come a teaspoonful
of Fairy Liquid in the coffee might be considered just the thing to clean the
arteries.
No, I do not think so, and I certainly would not invest any of my available
capital on a research programme on either count.
D. John Morl
Chelmsford, Essex