Pantry pests are small insects that feed on food products. Unfortunately, way too many homeowners, tenants, and businesses do not give much thought to the possibility of pantry pests. In these situations, food that does not need to be stored in the freezer or refrigerator will end up in a cubbyhole or on the countertop. This is very unfortunate because it leaves the food vulnerable to insects and rodents.

What Foods Do Pantry Pests East?

Pantry pests do not have a preferred food. In fact, they will eat just about anything they can get their pinchers on. However, some experts believe pantry pests are keener on the idea of eating processed food:

• Dried cereal and dried fruit
• Crackers, bread, and cookies
• Nuts
• Powdered milk
• Dried cat and dog food
• Raw pasta

Pantry Pests Pertain To What Insect Species?

Pantry pests include everything from a cigarette beetle to a cockroach to an Indian meal moth. All of these animals are fond of processed foods. The biggest downside to these insects, besides their presence, is they continuously reproduce. With easy access to food, water, and warm shelter, pantry pests will constantly reproduce eggs.

Pantry Pest Characteristics

Each pantry pest species has unique characteristics. Some are brown in color while others are reddish/brown and multi-colored. They all have multiple legs and antennas.

• Indian Meal Moth – The Indian Meal Moth is a tiny insect with a copper-colored body and brown/reddish wings. This pantry pest has shown to leave devastation in its path. They are commonly seen on ceilings and walls.
• Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle – The Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle has a slender both, with thorax projections that look like a traditional saw blade.
• Cigarette Beetle – The Cigarette Beetle is about 1/8th inch in length, with a back that replicates a camel hump. The body is covered with tiny hairs that have a fuzzy appearance. The beetle feeds on tobacco products, like cigars and cigarettes.

What Causes Pantry Pest Infestation?

The primary cause of pantry pest infestation is improperly stored processed food. Wherever there is a small crevice leading from the outside to the inside of the home, it becomes an access point for these insects.

• Improperly stored food, such as cereal, bread, and snacks
• Unsealed windows and doors

Signs Of A Pantry Pest Infestation

You need to know what to for because pantry pest infestations are very common in the United States. The signs of a pantry pest infestation include the following:

• Tiny fecal droppings on the countertop, floor, and other flat surfaces
• Tiny moth around exposed food
• Dead insect carcasses

Pantry Pest Infestation – Are They Harmful Or Harmless?

Most pantry pest species do not pose a danger to humans or pets. However, some people have reported anxiety and stress related to pantry pest infestations. It is crucial not to eat contaminated food. Instead, dispose of it in a sealed garbage bag and transport it outside to the local trash bin.

Preventing Pantry Pest Infestations?

The only way to prevent these infestations is with good storage techniques. Instead of leaving food in its original packaging, it is recommended to store it in plastic or glass containers with lids.

Another suggestion, seal all crevices and cracks around your windows and doors, as well as those underneath your kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Pantry Pest Infestation – How To Eradicate?

Eradicating pantry pest infestation begins with a total overhaul of your kitchen and dining room. Throw away contaminated food, remove processed food from its original packaging and place in it sealed containers, and seal all potential openings that lead to the outside of your home.

Insect pesticides are the most commonly utilized to eradicate these infestations. You can purchase these products at most big-box and retail stores. You can also order them online from a reputable vendor. There is no magical solution that will eradicate a pantry pest infestation overnight. It will take time and patience to see an improvement.

If you are dealing with a severe pantry pest infestation, your best course of action will involve a licensed exterminator. Detroit has some of the most reputable licensed exterminators in the United States. But, be prepared to put your entire home through a visual inspection.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.