The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a significant settlement with Stepan Co., a chemical solutions company based in Northbrook, Illinois. The company will pay a hefty penalty of $1,126,404 for allegedly selling a misbranded pesticide, violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
According to the EPA, a distributor for Stepan sold Wipes.Com Disinfectant Wipes 303 times. The problem? The product’s label did not include necessary directions for safe use, and it contained misleading claims about its safety and effectiveness. As part of the settlement, Stepan has agreed to rectify these labeling issues and update claims on its website.
FIFRA mandates that all pesticides sold in the U.S. must be registered with the EPA. This process ensures that products perform as promised and do not pose harm to people, animals, or the environment when used as directed. The law aims to protect public health by making sure that pesticide labels provide clear instructions for safe usage, storage, and disposal.
This settlement highlights the importance of accurate labeling and compliance with regulations in the pesticide industry. It serves as a reminder that companies must ensure their products meet safety standards to protect consumers and the environment.