Tag: Insecticide

The Food Chemicals Codex (FCC) includes over 1,200 monographs that establish internationally recognized standards for the identity, purity, and quality of food ingredients. For diatomaceous earth, this standard defines strict criteria, but it is often misunderstood by consumers regarding personal consumption.

In 1976, during a research project for a new insecticide, a British scientist misheard an instruction to 'test' a chemical, which led to the accidental discovery of sucralose. This remarkable mishap ultimately led to the creation of one of the world's most popular zero-calorie artificial sweeteners.

Composed of the fossilized remains of ancient diatoms, microscopic single-celled algae, diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that crumbles easily into a fine powder. While questions may arise about consumption timing, understanding the fundamental nature and established uses of diatomaceous earth provides a clearer picture of this unique material.

According to the National Pesticide Information Center, malathion is a powerful organophosphate insecticide used to control pests on crops, but its safety relies on proper handling. This includes adhering strictly to the Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI), which dictates how soon you can eat vegetables after spraying with malathion.

Diatomaceous earth is effective when dry, but many pest control and gardening experts use a wet application method to reach difficult areas or reduce dust. This slurry must completely dry for its insecticidal properties to become active.

According to Consumer Reports, essential oil-based natural repellents generally provide protection for less than two hours, a key fact when evaluating the many different products marketed as 'bug juice'. But the term "bug juice" refers to a variety of products, from insecticide paint additives to DIY essential oil mixes, so the answer to 'does bug juice actually work?' depends entirely on which product is being discussed.