What defines an adulterated pesticide?

An adulterated pesticide is defined as a pest control product that does not meet the standards established on its label. This means that the product may contain impurities, have an incorrect concentration of active ingredients, or lack the efficacy as promised on the label. The label serves as a legal document that outlines how a pesticide should be used, what it contains, and the safety measures that should be followed. When a pesticide diverges from these specifications, it can be considered adulterated because it may not function as intended, potentially leading to ineffective pest control or unsafe application practices.

The understanding of adulteration is crucial for maintaining safety in pesticide application and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Failure to adhere to label standards can also pose environmental risks and health hazards, highlighting the importance of proper labeling and adherence to those guidelines in the pesticide industry.