The No Fly Zone

Livestock fed with garlic emit an odor through their skin and breath that can deter flies. As a natural product, garlic is safe, easy to handle and easy to apply. Not only can garlic reduce flies on or near the livestock, but garlic in manure has also anecdotally been tied to reduced egg laying in manure emboldened with garlic.

Garlic is often suggested as a natural deterrent for flies and other insects that bother livestock. Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is believed to have insect-repellent properties. When consumed, the odor from garlic can be excreted through the skin, sweat, and breath, creating a scent that some insects, including flies, find unpleasant.  Allicin is a compound that is found in garlic (Allium sativum). It is responsible for the distinct aroma and flavor of garlic. When garlic is crushed, chopped, or otherwise damaged, an enzyme called alliinase converts a precursor compound called alliin into allicin. Allicin is volatile and quickly decomposes into other compounds, which is why the pungent smell of garlic dissipates over time.  While some farmers and ranchers claim that garlic has helped reduce fly populations around their cattle, there is no consensus in the scientific community regarding its effectiveness. Flies can be a nuisance to livestock and can potentially transmit diseases, so it’s crucial to implement reliable fly control measures.  Below are links to studies supporting garlic as a natural fly control product.

It’s important to consider that relying solely on garlic as a fly deterrent may not provide complete control over fly populations. Implementing comprehensive fly control strategies, such as good sanitation practices, proper manure management, fly traps, and insecticides approved for livestock use, may be necessary for more effective fly control.

Click on the links below to learn more about the power of Garlic.

Canadian Garlic Study- ~50% Fly Reduction

2023 Study on Garlic as a Fly Control