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Discovering “bugs” in your spices may be disgusting,
but it isn’t unusual, because many insects like to eat
what we do. Stored foods commonly infested include flour,
cereals, cracked grains, baking mixes and processed
foods, crackers, macaroni, cured meats, powdered milk,
dried fruits, nuts, popcorn and spices.
Insects
that feed on these products may also infest other grain-based
items such as pet foods, birdseed and ornamental corn.
Do
not use insecticides for controlling these or other
insects in pantry areas. Washing shelves with detergent,
bleach, ammonia or disinfectants will not have any effect
on these pests since these insects lay their eggs on
suitable food.
Removing
infested items and thoroughly cleaning with a vacuum
is usually sufficient. As a precaution against reinfestation,
store susceptible foods in tightly sealed glass, metal
or heavy plastic containers or in the refrigerator or
freezer.
If
insects continue to appear, go through stored items
again, also check other rooms in the home for possible
sources. Tree seeds blown into ventilators or around
windows may harbor these pests. Dermestids (carpet beetles)
can develop in many products such as feathers, silk,
wool, fur, stuffed animal skins, dead insects, lint
and many other materials. If insect problems persist,
seek assistance from a pest control professional.
For
more information, read Managing
Pantry Pests
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