There have been several questions concerning the recommendation of soaps, detergents, and vegetable oils for pest control.
Some persons are concerned about their liability in making such recommendations.
Federal and state pesticide laws do not permit persons who have a financial interest in such materials to make pesticidal claims in connection with their sale or distribution unless the material is registered as a pesticide. Examples of persons having a financial interest are employees of the manufacturer of such products, employees of wholesale or retail establishments where such materials are sold, and pesticide applicators who make pest control claims for trade name materials in connection with pest control services they are selling to a customer. Persons making pest control claims for a material in connection with its sale can be charged with the sale and distribution of an unregistered pesticide. Persons who use products not registered with EPA for any use not specifically recommended on the product label would be responsible for any phytotoxicity or chemical residues that may result. These materials have been used for many years by gardeners and others for pest control.