York scientists to develop a greener way of making plant-based insect repellent

Researchers at the University of York, Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, supported by the BDC have launched a groundbreaking project to develop a fully sustainable, bio-based method for producing dihydronepetalactone (DHN).

The BDC is supporting researchers at the University of York's Centre for Novel Agricultural Products in a groundbreaking project to develop a fully bio-based production method for dihydronepetalactone (DHN) — a natural, highly effective insect repellent derived from catmint oil. The BDC's Business Partnership Team is providing expertise in market research, stakeholder engagement, and commercialisation strategy, helping to bridge the gap between academic innovation and real-world application.

As climate change drives insect vector species into temperate regions, the risk of diseases such as Lyme disease, encephalitis, and malaria is growing. While synthetic repellents like DEET remain the most widely used defence, their fossil-fuel origins put many consumers off — leading them to choose ineffective alternatives or none at all, with real consequences for public health. DHN offers a compelling solution: a plant-derived repellent already available in the US market under the brand nipt!, with an excellent safety profile and no restrictions on repeat use or application to children.

Current DHN production begins with catmint essential oil, which is then chemically modified to enhance safety, stability, and scent. The University of York team has already demonstrated proof-of-principle that DHN can instead be produced through enzymatic catalysis — a biological process that significantly improves sustainability. Funded by the BBSRC Follow-on Fund, the project will now focus on optimising biocatalysis reaction conditions, improving enzyme catalysts for commercial viability, and building a robust business case for bio-based production.

The research team is partnering with Entomol Products LLC, the company behind nipt!, combining academic expertise with commercial experience. Together, with BDC support, they aim to replace a conventional 20th-century chemical process with a cleaner, fully bio-based alternative — delivering a natural insect repellent fit for a changing world.