Safe use of products to kill fleas, flies and other insects
We have issued a caution notice to alert consumers to risks posed by over-the-counter products which contain synthetic pyrethroids to kill insects.
We have issued a caution notice to alert consumers to risks posed by over-the-counter products which contain synthetic pyrethroids to kill insects.
1 November 2018
The chemicals are used in a variety of settings, including in some fly sprays, insect repellents, automatic insect dispensers, bed bug treatments, and animal flea collars and treatments.
We are not aware of any specific incidents in New Zealand relating to the use of fly sprays or home-use insecticides. There may be some instances that go unreported. This caution notice aims to promote, maintain and enhance consumer safety.
Products containing synthetic pyrethroids are still safe to use as long as the instructions for use on the product's label are followed. It is always a good idea to keep children and pets away from areas where household insecticides are being used.
To safely store and use synthetic pyrethroids, always:
A call for information is now open. You can provide feedback on how the products are used, the benefits associated with these products, manufacture and import volumes, any scientific and technical information, and any alternatives to these products.
Read about the call for information
The active ingredient is always listed on the label of fly sprays and household insecticides. You can check this to find out if it contains one of these synthetic pyrethroids:
Nine of these synthetic pyrethroids are on the priority chemical list and science-based evidence, research and understanding about chemicals increases every day. The latest information indicates these chemicals on our priority list require further review and scrutiny, to ensure any risks to people and the environment continue to be managed effectively.
Reassessment is the formal legal process for us to evaluate any new information, and take action to prevent, manage, mitigate or reduce risks that may have come to light since an approval was first granted. The process is a two-step one.