Skip to content
Successful authorisation of a biocidal product relies on conducting comprehensive risk assessments that establish its safe use for both the environment and human health. Insecticides present a substantial challenge, particularly when they contain more than one active substance or substances of concern. With the EU dates of approval for two Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium extracts rapidly approaching, now is the opportune moment to start assessing the risks and plan efficacy studies.

Preliminary risk assessments

While pyrethrum is a highly efficient insecticide extracted from flowers, it is classified as very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. Additionally, it shows an intrinsic hazard to bees. Often, pyrethrum is used in combination with synergists or other active substances like piperonyl butoxide, cypermethrin, permethrin, s-methoprene, or margosa extract.

Passing the very conservative emission scenarios can prove incredibly challenging. It is strongly recommended to perform preliminary risk assessments as even with innovative refinements, reducing the risk to acceptable levels across all scenarios, be it indoor or outdoor use, can be difficult. Furthermore, Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium extracts are classified as skin sensitisers so finding the appropriate concentration of active substances in biocidal products intended for public use becomes crucial, as personal protective equipment is typically not an accepted risk mitigation measure for such users.

Efficacy testing

How TSG can help

At Sagentia Regulatory, formerly TSG Consulting, we are well-positioned to support applicants in devising effective strategies for higher-tier environmental risk assessments, as well as developing studies to improve the data package for both environmental and human health. We can work with you to develop a sound strategy for the efficacy package needed to support your products.

Our team of experienced consultants have a deep understanding of the specific requirements involved in insecticide and repellent applications for both active substances and biocidal products.

We can help you with:

  • Finding the right balance between efficient application rate and safe use
  • Commissioning and monitoring of studies
  • Finding inventive solutions for acceptable risk for products, for example applied via large-scale spraying outdoors
  • Guidance on label claims and efficacy data package

Do get in touch at [email protected] if you’d like to schedule an initial chat with our biocides specialists.

Follow the link to learn more about our EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) services.

Read our expert insights

Advisory

June 15, 2026

California’s pesticide-treated seed proposal and the emerging national framework

Close-up of blue-tinted, twisted, thread-like structures resembling a DNA double helix under a microscope.
Advisory

June 11, 2026

Health Canada Biocides Emerging Viral Pathogen policy is triggered for ebola disease

Professional woman with glasses at a cluttered desk, reviewing documents and sticky notes in an office.
Insight

June 3, 2026

Why state product renewals are no longer a back-office task, and the risks of getting them wrong

Contact us to arrange a chat with our regulatory experts