EPA settles with Nevada companies over distribution of unregistered pesticide

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently settled with two Sparks, Nevada, companies, in an agreement that includes a $12,000 civil penalty, over allegations that they distributed and sold an unregistered and misbranded pesticide.

The pesticide, Mold Manager, was distributed by WellPlant Inc. and GST International Inc in California, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nevada, Oregon and Ohio through online sales, despite having never been registered by the EPA. The agency issued a “Stop Sale” order in December 2015 to block continued distribution.

“Labels that are misleading put people at risk,” EPA Acting Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest Alexis Strauss said. “Consumers should look for EPA registration numbers and carefully follow application guidelines to ensure their safety.”

The product is a liquid spray purported to prevent mold, mildew, algae and moss growth. As such, it is required to undergo EPA registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The registration process includes EPA review of the substances’ contents, directions for use and warnings, ensuring that they are safe for the public. The label Mold Manager was sold under featured misleading statements and inadequate information on the liquid’s active ingredients.

The two companies have safely disposed of their remaining inventory of the pesticide.