A method includes first encoding first data into a first plurality of sets of encoded data slices, wherein the first encoding is in accordance with a first dispersed error encoding function. The method further includes second encoding second data into a second plurality of sets of encoded data slices, wherein the second encoding is in accordance with a second dispersed error encoding function. The method further includes creating a plurality of mixed sets of encoded data slices from the first and second plurality of sets of encoded data slices in accordance with a mixing pattern. The method further includes outputting the plurality of sets of mixed encoded data slices to storage units of the DSN for storage therein.