What is activated charcoal and why is it in the soap?
Activated charcoal is a porous, carbon-based material produced by heating organic material at high temperatures. This process creates a large internal surface area that allows it to physically bind and adsorb certain odour-causing compounds during washing — including those from fish, garlic, and onion on dishes, cookware, and hands.
Unlike synthetic odour-neutralizers or masking fragrances, activated charcoal works without adding scent or chemical reactivity. It does not interact with the soap formula, does not bleach, does not disinfect, and does not remove heavy grease on its own. Its role in this formula is specific: odour adsorption, working alongside the plant-based cleansing system.
It also gives the bar its distinctive anthracite colour — a look that’s rarely seen in kitchen cleaning products.
One thing to expect: charcoal particles can work into the fibres of a sponge or microfibre cloth over time and leave a grey tint. This is a normal property of the material and does not affect cleaning performance.
The adsorptive capacity of activated charcoal in a rinse-off product is limited by contact time. Results may vary depending on the intensity of the odour and the amount of soap used.
