Key Takeaways:
- TOMI Environmental Solutions’ SteraMist® ionized hydrogen peroxide (iHP) shown to significantly inactivate Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), a major driver of honeybee colony collapse
- Collaborative research with the USDA highlights non-toxic potential for hive disinfection
- Study published June 2, 2025, confirms impact on DWV-A and DWV-B strains spread by Varroa mites
- Findings come amid reported 60% U.S. colony losses in early 2025 and $600M in related economic impact
- TOMI’s technology may offer a scalable, biosecure tool to support pollinator health and food security
TOMI Environmental Solutions Plays Role in Honeybee Health Through Virus Inactivation Technology
TOMI Environmental Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: TOMZ), a company focused on disinfection and decontamination solutions, has announced that its SteraMist® technology was found to inactivate key viral strains linked to honeybee colony collapse, according to a study published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on June 2, 2025.
The peer-reviewed research, titled “Deformed wing virus of honeybees is inactivated by cold plasma ionized hydrogen peroxide”, identifies SteraMist’s ionized hydrogen peroxide (iHP) as a non-toxic treatment capable of significantly reducing DWV-A and DWV-B strains on hive surfaces.
Addressing a Growing Challenge in U.S. Agriculture
Honeybee colony collapse remains a major concern for U.S. agriculture. In early 2025, commercial beekeepers reported up to 60% colony losses, with DWV—spread by miticide-resistant Varroa destructor mites—identified as a leading cause. These losses carry an estimated $600 million in direct economic impact.
“Pollinators are essential to the strength and sustainability of our nation’s food supply,” said Joon Park, Acting Administrator of the USDA Agricultural Research Service. “TOMI’s SteraMist technology has demonstrated meaningful potential in this fight by effectively inactivating the Deformed Wing Virus.”
TOMI Environmental Solutions Positioned in Environmental Biosecurity Sector
TOMI Environmental Solutions has developed SteraMist as a cold plasma disinfection system that generates ionized hydrogen peroxide. According to the USDA study, the system reduces the presence of DWV in hive substrates without harming bees or leaving chemical residues, making it a potential tool for environmental biosecurity in apiary operations.
“The economic and ecological impact of honeybee colony collapse cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Halden Shane, CEO of TOMI Environmental Solutions. “We are proud that SteraMist offers a proven and nontoxic solution for beekeepers.”
