What is a challenge with using dust pesticide products?

Using dust pesticide products presents a notable challenge due to the risk of drift and inhalation. Dust formulations are lightweight and can easily become airborne, which can lead to unintended dispersal of the active ingredients. When these dusts are applied, they can be carried by the wind or disturbed by movement, potentially affecting non-target areas, including nearby plants, animals, or even humans. This drift can compromise the effectiveness of the treatment by reducing the amount of product that reaches the target pests while increasing the risk to individuals who may inhale the particles, leading to potential health issues.

In contrast, the other options present less significant challenges. For instance, dust products can be quite effective against a variety of pests if used properly. While some dust formulations may be more cumbersome than liquid sprays, they are not necessarily bulky and hard to handle. Furthermore, many dust pesticides are designed to have a stable shelf life, allowing them to be stored effectively without rapid degradation of efficacy.