Why should pesticides not be mixed unless stated on the label?

Pesticides should not be mixed unless stated on the label primarily to prevent chemical reactions that can lead to toxicity. This is critical because different chemicals can react in unforeseen ways, potentially creating harmful byproducts or increasing the toxicity of the mixture beyond intended levels. For instance, mixing incompatible pesticides might result in a reaction that alters their effectiveness or creates hazardous compounds that can be dangerous to humans, animals, or the environment.

Understanding the importance of following label instructions helps users apply pesticides safely and effectively, thereby reducing the risk of adverse effects that can arise from improper mixtures. Labels are designed to provide specific guidance based on scientific research and safety testing, ensuring that users are informed about how to handle each product safely and effectively.