PANTRY INSECTS & MOTHS
Sometimes you will bring home, from the grocery store a product that has been infested with some type of pantry pest. Either moths or any one of variety of insects that feed and lay their eggs in grain or seed products, ( they also like nuts)which you purchase and bring home. When this occurs you will some times find out about it too late, and the infestation has already begun. When this happens, you need to work quickly and diligently to stop the problem. Inspect every box, bag or container that has any seed or grain product in the ingredients list, Check every product that possibly contains these ingredients, such as dry dog, dry cat food, bird seed, cake mixes, rice, etc. The list of products involved could fill several pages. When you see larvae or webs in any box or container, burn it immediately. Next, place every box or container with seed or grain products in the ingredients, that didn't show larvae or webs, in the freezer for 4 days. This kills the eggs and larvae that you may have missed. Empty all the cabinets that held food products and wash the insides thoroughly with a chlorine bleach solution, ( 2 cup to a gallon of warm water.) And allow to air dry. DO NOT RINSE! Make sure you remove the shelves, if possible, and wash the edges, that's where the eggs normally are deposited. If the infestation gets beyond your cabinets, you may need to wash the walls and ceiling of the kitchen also. If really infested, you may need to wash everything in the kitchen. Remember to allow everything to air dry. If you happen to know where you purchased the item that caused the problem, be sure to alert the store manager. Ask that the offending product be removed from the shelves. Do this to help keep others from having the same problem
I've been asked to describe the insects and moths that cause this problem. Unfortunately, that would take too much space and time. However, if you feel that you would like to know what these insects or moths look like, I suggest you stop at the library and look through any of the books on insects or moths. Or call your local Farm agent or Extension Office and ask if they can help you with some pictures of insects and moths that cause problems in grain or seed products in households. If there is an Agway Store near you stop and ask to look at their Ortho Problem Solver Book. This book has pictures of all the household pests.