Question:
Our family has made and sold an insect repellent in Canada for almost 90
years. It is has two active ingredients. One is Oil of Citronella and
the other is Dimethyl pthalate. Agriculture Canada has called for a
re-evaluation of these two ingredients along with some others (including
DEET) in terms of efficiency and safety.
Being a small company (i.e. half the garage) we ignored this hoping some
other company would do it. Apparently we are the only company in Canada
using these ingredients as we have been told that effective 1996 we are
out of business. As my brother and I are of the age and inclination to
continue this family business (tradition really), I am hoping some one
could point us in the direction of any studies done on toxicity of these
ingredients. Gopher sites with study databases, online databases
(preferably Internet using telnet or ftp) seem to be the place to start,
so any addresses would be appreciated.
Answer:
If you find that you need to do the study in regard to efficiency (I
don't know if I can help you with Safety,) I would be happy to help.
Since you mix the ingredients yourself, it should be relatively easy to
assess the effect of each ingredient independantly as well as determine
whether there is any interaction between the ingredients. You could also
determine (possibly *verify* since you have over 90 years of experience
with the product,) the optimal levels of active ingredients.
I am the consulting manager of the Analytical Consulting Group and I
like to take on projects such as what you have mentioned to keep my
hands in things. Normally I stick with projects for non-profits, but I
tend to find myself rooting for the underdog and I certainly have a
strong affection for Canada.
If you are interested, let me know.
BTW, one place to start your search on toxicity is the manufacturer.
Thanks to the US Occupational Health and Safety Act, the manufacturer
has to produce a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for every chemical
they produce and/or use. This MSDS has to describe toxic effects, etc.
Assuming that the manufacturer does business in the United States,
they'll have the MSDS's for the chemicals you are using.
