The Consumer Council has warned against the use of 11 models of mosquito coils due to their potential health hazard to users.
This followed a joint test of the Council and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on 19 samples of the product obtained from the market.
The mosquito coils were detected with an unregistered pesticide active ingredient identified as S-2 which overseas studies have suggested that the combustion of S-2 containing mosquito coils might release a carcinogen BCME.
Given the fact that S-2 containing mosquito coils are not registered in Hong Kong, AFCD has ordered the recall of the concerned products from the local market. Nine of the 11 models confirmed with S-2 have almost been completely retrieved, while recall action of the remaining two models continues.
AFCD has stressed that there is insufficient evidence to indicate that the use of S-2 containing mosquito coils has a direct linkage with human cancer.
But as a safety precaution, the public should stop using S-2 containing mosquito coils.
S-2 (octachlorodipropyl ether) is used as a synergist in mosquito coils to enhance the insect killing efficacy of synthetic pyrethroid insecticides.
Recent research has indicated that the chemical may release BCME (bis (chloromethyl) ether) which is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as carcinogenic to humans.
Under the Pesticides Ordinance, Cap. 133 of the Laws of Hong Kong, only registered pesticides can be imported, manufactured, sold or supplied in Hong Kong.
As S-2 containing mosquito coils are not registered under the Pesticides Ordinance and the related ingredient information is not shown on the product label, AFCD has requested suppliers to withdraw the products and produce new formulations.
Some suppliers have already introduced new mosquito coil formulations with no S-2 to replace the old stocks in the market. These new mosquito coil products would first be submitted to AFCD and be allowed to enter the market upon passing a test. AFCD also recommends suppliers to state the new products are without S-2 on the packing for easy identification.
From the safety point of view and given other products are available in the market, consumers are advised to choose and use mosquito coils not containing S-2.
Consumers should also read the label before buying mosquito coils, keep good ventilation (i.e. opening the windows) and use in accordance with the product instruction.
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