The Truth About Diatomaceous Earth – Myth #1 – There is No Conclusive, Unbiased Evidence that Supports Claims about DE
Government Agencies
The truth about diatomaceous earth is that many years of research, in addition to consumer input, have led diatomaceous earth manufacturers to develop DE insecticide products. In the U.S., in order to be approved, these products must be reviewed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA requires proof of product efficiency therefore, extensive efficacy testing must be completed using the diatomaceous earth against insects. Many DE products are registered with government agencies in the United States and Canada as insecticides, all of which have gone through stringent testing in order to ensure their effectiveness.
Studies
Many University studies have been published in peer reviewed publications that support the use of diatomaceous earth for external parasites. These studies are often conducted without the manufacturer or DE supplier’s prior knowledge and therefore no conflict of interest influences the findings.
Controlled studies examining the effects of DE have also been conducted. Recently, an independent study was conducted by the University of British Columbia and published in Poultry Science, a leading poultry research publication for peer reviewed poultry articles. The results of this study found that our diatomaceous earth was effective at controlling external parasites. Below is an excerpt from the study:
…the effectiveness of DE to treat a Northern fowl mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) infestation was tested. Relative to controls, both breeds of hens that were dusted with DE had reduced number of mites. The results of this study indicate the DE has the potential to be an effective treatment to help control parasites…
In addition to this study, credible research supporting these findings has been completed by many other independent, qualified researchers and published in peer reviewed publications. As well, many consumers have seen similar results.