US EPA orders FMC to stop sale of unregistered pesticides

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a Stop Sale, Use or Removal Order to FMC Corp., requiring the Philadelphia-based company to immediately stop the sale and distribution of three pesticide products: Microbemax™ Volumetric Drain Foam, Microbemax™ Continuous Cleaning System, and Microbemax™ Starter Kit.

EPA cited FMC for violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), a federal law requiring the registration of pesticide products and pesticide-production facilities, and the proper labeling of pesticides. FIFRA's requirements protect public health and the environment by ensuring the safe production, handling and application of pesticides; and by preventing false, misleading, or unverifiable product claims. FIFRA also prohibits the marketing of misbranded, improperly labeled, or adulterated pesticides.

EPA alleged that FMC made pesticidal claims for these products, and violated FIFRA registration and labeling requirements. EPA’s order requires the company to immediately stop the sale, use, removal, or distribution of these unregistered products.