Abstract: Authentication of products dispensed in an automated chemical dispensing system occurs via electronic communication of product information. The dispensing system includes a plurality of dispense stations, each of which is configured to dispense a corresponding specified chemical product. A product container includes an electronically readable label or tag that includes product information that identifies the chemical product in the container. A product dispenser reads the product information and automatically determines whether the specified product has been loaded onto or into the dispense station. If the product is thus “authenticated,” the system may permit dispensing of the chemical product. If the product is not authenticated, the system may prevent dispensing of the chemical product and/or generate an error message.