Customs and the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and the Fight against Fraud (DGCCRF) alerted consumers on Wednesday, October 2, about the increase in seizures of Sniper 1000, an insecticide banned in France used for the treatment of pests such as bed bugs.
In a study published in December 2023, health authorities recalled the risks posed by this active substance from the organophosphate family: classified as fatal by inhalation and toxic by contact with the skin or by ingestion, it is likely to cause respiratory symptoms, eye and neurological disorders.
The insecticide, banned in France since 2013, continues to be sold in “market stalls, on e-commerce platforms or by individuals on social networks”according to a press release from customs and the DGCCRF.
More than 2,000 bottles seized
“Given the increase in seizures made on travelers, customs services display a prevention message for the attention of users, published by the DGCCRF, upon the arrival of flights considered risky”specify the authorities.
Since the beginning of 2024, customs services, in goods and travelers’ luggage, have seized more than 2,000 vials of Sniper 1000 at Roissy airport and at a customs post office in Wissous (Essonne).
“In case of bed bug infestation, consumers are encouraged to prefer, as a first option, mechanical and thermal solutions (vacuum, wash, heat, cold)”according to the press release.
“If the infestation persists, it is recommended to contact a qualified professional listed on the stop-punaises.gouv.fr website. Finally, if the purchase of biocides is necessary, opt for conventional distribution channels where advice can be provided on the application or storage of the products.the authorities add.
