Current interest in non-DEET insect repellents, efficacy, safety, and the “clean” movement

Market studies show growing trends towards natural and clean ingredients in cosmetics, personal care products and insect repellent products. Consumers desire safe, effective alternatives for insect repellents that are N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) free. Although DEET is safe and effective when used as directed, there is a perception that it may be harmful if used above recommended levels. Consumers prefer using natural or nature-identical ingredients for their family. Ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (IR3535®), is EPA classified as a biopesticide. Biopesticides are considered a reduced risk pesticide, they are naturally occurring substances or synthetically derived equivalents that have a non-toxic mode of action to the target pest(s). Biopesticides produce little or no toxic residue, tend to decompose quickly resulting in lower exposures and minimizing pollution concerns typical of conventional pesticides. This presentation reviews recent dermatological testing on volunteers with sensitive, atopic skin, mosquito repellency and safety data that makes IR3535® suitable for use on adults and young children. IR3535® was also tested for repellency of lice, various species of flies, ticks, bees, and wasps with favorable results. Cage and field test studies with various Aedes sp, Anopheles sp., Culex sp. show protection time between 8-12 h. IR3535® is nontoxic to aquatic organisms, nonpersistent-no bioaccumulation in aquatic systems. A sewage treatment simulation assay OECD 303A resulted in biodegradation 99% with complete mineralization. The repellent is rapidly biodegradable in soils and not considered to be persistent or bioaccumulating. Conclusion; IR3535® is well suited to meet the growing concerns for sustainable development goals for human health and well-being.