Capsaicinoids that repel insects, reptiles, mammals, microorganisms and marine life are compounded with one or more ceramics or other inert material, into an environmentally friendly additive. The additive can be incorporated by extrusion, pultrusion, compression molding, casting or other suitable process into a wide range of products including, but not limited to, polymers, composites, paints, coatings, varnishes, shellacs, stains, sealants, preservatives, glues, adhesives, minerals, resins, latex, reinforced polymers, powders, foams and other similar classes of materials polymers, or combinations thereof. The repellency of the capsaicinoids remains effective for periods up to several years when the products are employed in their normal commercial uses.