Racemic modifications each consisting of specific isomers of .alpha.-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl cis- or trans-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2,2,2-trichloroethyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate with the absolute configurations [.alpha.S, 1R] an [.alpha.R, 1S] with respect to the asymmetric carbon atoms in the alcohol and acid moieties, a method of producing the same and pesticidal compositions containing the same as active ingredient are provided. .alpha.-Cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl cis- or trans-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2,2,2-trichloroethyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate has higher pesticidal activities than those pesticides that are in general use and consequently selective production of the above specific racemic modification as defined by the combinations of the absolute configuration with respect to the asymmetric carbon atom at the position in the alcohol moiety and the absolute configuration with respect to the asymmetric carbon atom in the acid moiety provides compounds having still higher pesticidal activities.