Well... it took years, and years, and more years, past P&G's announcement in 2014, but they have finally removed Sodium TripolyPhosphate from the Ariel Powder sold in Mexico. Previously, they removed the Phosphate from versions manufactured for Argentina, Peru & Columbia, but left it in formulas for other countries.
They also, very oddly, removed ALL Phosphate from Ace Powder Detergent back in 2018, but kept it going in ARIEL. Who knows why? However, I have to think this has more to do with P&G moving American Tide, Gain and Cheer Powder Production to Mexico. They probably didn't want STPP mixing in with American Formulas, even trace amounts.
You can still find QUITE a bit of the old bags, on shelves in Bodegas, and Latin Markets throughout the Country. The No Phosphate Bags will be clearly marked, on the back with a Half Blue/Half Green Leaf over the ARIEL Logo, and "LIBRE DE FOSFATOS" Printed... or a Measuring Cup with "SANS FOSFATOS" printed on the front.
The Blue Bags of Original Ariel... that say "KILLS 99.9% OF BACETIEA" ALSO, are all Phosphate Free. If you see the Anti-Bacterial claims, you can just skip that bag, and keep shifting.
Personally... I absolutely loved the product. P&G dished in Suds Suppressors Years Ago, and you could use as much as 1/2 to 3/4 a Cup in a HE Front Loader, with very clean rinses. Not to mention, with almost 35% STPP by weight... it was a powerhouse cleaner, and much cheaper than buying STPP to add in. Not only that, but it smelled great, and left behind a nice fresh scent.
I will miss it wholeheartedly.
This is your official notice to pick up a bag, if you also loved it.
P.S. -- The Versions sold at Wal-Mart, Dollar General, and Other Chain Stores, are often another variation, P&G Internally called "Ariel USA". These all have a Number of Doses printed across the front, as well as half the labeling printed in English. All of these will be Phosphate-Free... for obvious reasons.
