On 7/29/05 11:34 AM, in article , "Uncle Al"
wrote:

Sounds like lycopene from the tomatoes or another carotenoid from the
foliage. Mild oxidation will then remove the color (benzoyl peroxide
acne cream; Oxy-Clean, dilute bleach), as will electrophiles (skunk
juice). Why don't you wear gloves?

It could come from the foliage. That was all I handled for my second test.

It is not a skin problem yet. It washes off easily. Nevertheless,
considering that only a small amount could have been carried on my hands, it
has all the earmarks of a strongly absorbing indicator dye.

I was just curious as to what might be happening. It might be the basis for
a good kitchen science experiment in these days of limited access to
equipment and chemicals.

Bill