Nébih draws attention to the dangers of counterfeit pesticides

According to the European Plant Protection Association, 14 percent of the pesticide trade in Europe is involved in counterfeiting and illegal distribution, while in Hungary this rate is around 10 percent. Counterfeit products are of unknown origin and composition, so neither their effectiveness nor safety is guaranteed. Their quality and actual composition are uncontrolled, and their use can be dangerous.

In contrast, legally distributed pesticides are authorized by the authority after a strict, multi-stage examination, taking into account the effectiveness, the acceptable risk to humans and the environment, and the quality parameters. Authorized products are monitored throughout the entire period of distribution. They can be used safely in accordance with the regulations, with a Hungarian-language label, and by following the instructions for use and danger signs.

The Nébih “Don’t spray, take risks” communication campaign week focuses on the risks posed by counterfeit pesticides. The authority uses playful and educational content to draw attention to the fact that we should only buy pesticides – both online and in physical stores – from licensed Hungarian distributors. It also focuses on recognizing counterfeits: for example, a strikingly low price, a faulty or incomplete label, the lack of instructions for use in Hungarian, and an unknown or foreign seller may give rise to suspicion.

There is no doubt that buyers do not have an easy time, as counterfeit products can be of poor quality, with inadequate or different active ingredient content, or even high-quality imitations that are deceptively similar to the original in their packaging and contents. For safe purchasing, it is essential to choose a reliable distributor, keep the invoice, and avoid street vendors, markets, unknown corner traders, and foreign online advertisements. In case of suspicion, the Nébih Green Number (06-80/263-244) can be called and a report can be made to the plant protection authority.

The message of the campaign is clear: by purchasing any counterfeit product, we support illegal activities and put our own health, the environment and future crop security at risk. Responsible, legal purchasing is important in order not to risk spraying. The campaign can be followed on Nébih’s social media platforms: https://www.facebook.com/nebIh.hu/ and https://www.instagram.com/nebih_hun/.