Re. VTD (Varroa Treatment Device) - Popodi Developments. For some time now, we have read various promotional articles about this plastic device. In every case, it claims highly effective against Varroa, safe to use, and University tested. Well, I have not seen any independent scientific information confirming these claims. Let the unnamed US university publish its findings so that beekeepers can make up their own minds about the VTD. Also, I remain concerned about a device described as 'safe', whose operation depends on the use of 85% formic acid. It is on the fringe of mis-information because handling formic acid carries some potential hazard to the applicator and bees. It doesn't mean formic acid should or could not be used in beehives, but beekeepers must be fully aware that formic acid (even at the standard 65% concentration used in Canada) is hazardous and must be handled with care. I sincerely hope the VTD is as effective as it claims to be but instead of having a promotional ad on the Bee-L, why not distribute and publish the field trials of this mysterious US university substantiating the efficacy of the product? Paul van Westendorp [log in to unmask] Provincial Apiarist British Columbia