Should DEET Insect Repellent Labels Be Updated?
Official title: Consultation on DEET plus related active toluamides and its associated end-use products, Proposed Re-evaluation Decision PRVD2025-09
Health Canada is reviewing DEET—the active ingredient in most bug sprays. The verdict? It's still safe to use. But the agency wants to update product labels to meet current standards and add a warning about rare skin reactions like itching or rashes.
Why This Matters
Use bug spray in the summer? You're probably using DEET. It's in 201 products sold in Canada and has been around since 1957. This review confirms it's safe but proposes clearer labels. If you've ever had a skin reaction to repellent, the new warnings could help you make better choices.
What Could Change
Product labels for DEET-based repellents would be updated to current standards. A new precautionary statement would warn users about rare skin reactions like itching or rashes. No changes to the products themselves—just clearer instructions.
Key Issues
- Are the proposed label updates sufficient to protect consumers?
- Is the new skin reaction warning appropriate?
How to Participate
- Review the summary of the proposed decision to understand the proposed label changes.
- Submit your comments to the Pest Management Regulatory Agency Publications Section by the deadline. Include "PRVD2025-09" in your submission.