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Module 1: Label Basics
Table Of Contents
Modules
- Label Basics
- Parts of the Label
- Special Issues
- Applying the Principles of Pesticide Label Review
- Emerging Issues and Course Completion
Section 1: What is a pesticide label?
Learning Activity
Assess each product listed below. Does the product qualify as a pesticide? (Yes or No)
After deciding, select the question mark graphic to reveal the answer. (Hint: Refer to Chapter 2 of the Label Review Manual.)
- Product Yes / No
- Answer
- Product A is grain treated with a chemical that reduces the number of eggs geese can hatch.
- Yes, this product is a pesticide. Geese are considered pests when they establish themselves permanently in an area. Click here to see label (PDF) (5 pp, 107K, About PDF).
- Product B is a household bleach. Its label says that it “cleans and deodorizes.”
- No, this product is not a pesticide. “Clean” and “deodorize” are not pesticidal claims; however, if a bleach product label claims to sanitize, disinfect, or kill germs, then it must be registered as a pesticide.
- Product C is a powerful aerosol spray based on chili peppers and marketed to hikers as a bear repellent.
- Yes, this product is a pesticide. Bears are considered a public health pest when they come into contact with humans.
- Product D is sprayed on apples to promote uniform ripening to facilitate efficient harvesting.
- Yes, this product is a pesticide. Plant regulators, as well as defoliants and desiccants, are specifically included in the definition of a pesticide.
- Product E is an athlete's foot remedy that kills or slows the growth of fungus on living humans.
- No, this product is not a pesticide. Products intended and labeled for use only for the control of fungi, bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms in or on living humans or animals are not considered pesticides.
- Product F is added to horse feed. It passes through the digestive tract and prevents fly eggs from hatching in the horse's manure.
- Yes, this product is a pesticide. It is not an animal drug because, although fed to an animal, it does not treat anything on or inside of the horse. If a product is fed to an animal to treat a parasite afflicting the animal, then it is an animal drug regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
- Product G is an asphalt tree wound dressing that claims to prevent the entrance of insects into fresh cut surfaces.
- No, this product is not a pesticide. Products that are intended to exclude pests only by providing a physical barrier against pest access, and that contain no toxics, are not pesticides.
- Product H is a liquid added to the water lines that supply the rinse water for the patient in a dentist's chair. The label says it prevents the buildup of biofilm.
- Yes, this product is a pesticide. Slime, algae, and biofilms are organisms that grow in water, and controlling them is a pesticidal function.