EPA Opens Public Comment Period on Proposal to Register a New Mosquito Repellent Product

Released on February 22, 2023

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is accepting public comments on its proposal to register the first outdoor product containing the insecticide transfluthrin.

The proposed product, which is a wax pod containing dissolved transfluthrin, would be used to repel mosquitoes in outdoor residential areas and semi-enclosed areas, such as porches and decks. To use the product, consumers would place the wax pod in a lantern tray heated by a candle. When the candle is lit, heat generated from the candle melts the wax pod and volatilizes the transfluthrin. One wax pod can repel mosquitoes in approximately a 15-foot radius for 24 hours.

EPA’s evaluation of this product included a robust scientific assessment, which concluded that this product, when used according to the label instructions, does not present any risks of concern to humans. EPA also concluded that potential exposure to non-target animals is likely low given the product’s anticipated range and its rapid dissipation and degradation in the environment. To learn more, see EPA’s human health and ecological risk assessments.

EPA is accepting comments on this proposal in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0965 at www.regulations.gov for 30 days.