Frequently Asked Questions

The word "diatomaceous" comes from the root word "diatom", which is a single-celled organism found in freshwater lakes and riverbeds. Diatomaceous earth is a chalk-like powder that is made up entirely of these diatoms that have fossilized over thousands of years. Depending on the grade of diatomaceous earth, these diatoms can be used to promote health, preserve food, and even control many common household pests & insects.

Diatomaceous earth forms over a long period of time as millions of single-celled organisms fossilize in lake beds. These lake beds then dry up, exposing the sedimentary deposit that we call diatomaceous earth.

Food grade DE is used for a great many things, almost all of which fall into two main (and rather unrelated) categories: health benefits and pest control. It is either taken internally as a supplement or used as a natural solution to treat all kinds of insects. There are other grades like pool grade DE that are used to filter water, but have been treated and are not safe for consumption. Make sure you have the right grade for the job.

Diatomaceous earth is naturally formed, and has been around for thousands of years. It has only been relatively recently that we have discovered how to effectively use it.