EPA Registers New Mosquito Repellent Product
Released on July 6, 2023
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is registering a new mosquito repellent product. The product, known as AM 601 Pod, is a wax pod containing dissolved transfluthrin, an insecticide active ingredient. This product is an additional tool to help protect human health from mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses.
The product can be used to repel mosquitoes in outdoor residential areas and semi-enclosed areas, such as porches and decks. To use the product, consumers 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 while lit, for up to 24 hours.
This is the first outdoor-use product containing transfluthrin. Previously, transfluthrin was only labeled for indoor use to repel mosquitoes, stable flies, and sand flies. 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 determined that the use of this product would not result in direct or indirect effects to listed species and made a “No Effect” determination for listed endangered or threatened species and their designated critical habitats. Under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), EPA determines whether a FIFRA action may have any effect on a species or critical habitat. If EPA finds “no effect,” no further ESA analysis is needed.
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.
Prior to registration, EPA reviewed public comments on the proposed registration. All documents associated with the registration of this product, including the registration decision document, can be found in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0965 at www.regulations.gov.