What is a pesticide's "expiration date"?

A pesticide's "expiration date" refers to the date until which the product is expected to remain effective if stored according to the manufacturer's instructions. Pesticides are formulated to achieve a certain level of efficacy, and over time, their active ingredients can degrade due to factors such as exposure to heat, light, and moisture. The expiration date provides users with important guidance on the product's effectiveness, ensuring that they apply pesticides when they can achieve the intended level of pest control.

Understanding this definition is crucial for safe and effective pesticide use. Using a product past its expiration date could result in ineffective pest management, which can lead to increased pest populations and potential damage to crops or plants. Proper storage, as indicated by the manufacturer, plays a key role in maintaining a pesticide's effectiveness up until its expiration date.

While other aspects in the choices mention important points such as safety and legality, they do not specifically define the expiration date as it relates to efficacy and product performance.