Pantry Pests: A Guide to Identifying and Treating Different Types

Pantry pests are a common problem in many households, and can quickly ruin food supplies if left unchecked. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of pantry pests, what they look like, and how to effectively treat them.

Types of Pantry Pests

The most common pantry pests are moths, beetles, and weevils. These pests can be easily identified by their appearance and behavior:

Moths – Moths may have white or gray wings with dark spots. They can fly and are often seen near lights or in kitchen cabinets. Moths lay eggs on food, which can hatch into larvae.
Beetles – Beetles are small, dark-colored insects with hard shells. They may have reddish-brown, black, or yellow markings. Beetles can fly and lay eggs in food, which can hatch into larvae.
Weevils – Weevils are small, dark-colored beetles with long snouts. They may have reddish-brown or black markings. Weevils burrow into food and lay eggs, which can hatch into larvae.

Here’s a list of common pantry pests that can be found in Greenville, North Carolina:

Indianmeal Moths: These moths are notorious for infesting stored grains, nuts, and dried fruits. They can be found in kitchens and food storage areas.
Drugstore Beetles: These beetles feed on a variety of stored foods, including grains, spices, and dried fruits. They are often found in pantries and cabinets¹.
Granary Weevils: These weevils attack stored grains such as corn, wheat, and rice. They can also infest other foods like beans, nuts, and grapes.
Rice Weevils: Similar to granary weevils, rice weevils infest stored grains and can attack corn, wheat, and rice.
Confused Flour Beetles: These beetles infest flour, cereal, and other grain-based products. They thrive in warm and humid environments.
Merchant Grain Beetles: These beetles infest stored grains and processed foods. They are often found in kitchens and food storage areas.

Treating Pantry Pests

The best way to get rid of pantry pests is to remove all infested food products from your pantry and dispose of it. Vacuum any remaining food particles and wash shelves and drawers with soapy water. To prevent future infestations, make sure food is stored in airtight containers and inspect all food before bringing it into the house.

Conclusion

Pantry pests can be a nuisance, but with the right knowledge and treatment, you can keep them from ruining your food supplies. Be sure to inspect all food before bringing it into your home and store it in airtight containers to prevent infestations. Call D & D Pest Control Co. at (252)523-8255 for more information