Stored Product Pests

There are several different types of beetles, moths, and mites that are included in the stored product pest category. Indian meal moths, cigarette beetles, varied carpet beetles, and sawtoothed grain beetles are some examples. Now, if you’re wondering what the heck a stored product pest is, we're here to help. They are a group of insects that will attack products that are typically kept and stored within your home; including nuts, grains, flour, dry pasta, dry pet food, carpets, clothing, and tobacco. They are also referred to as pantry pests.

How Do Stored Product Pests Find Their Way In?

Stored product pests are most often introduced into homes and businesses by purchasing products that are already infested. You’re probably not looking at grocery shopping quite the same way anymore. Sorry about that. Once inside, these pests will continue to breed, feed, and be very difficult to eliminate. These pests are not known to transmit diseases but any food that they are found in is considered contaminated and should be discarded.

Identification

Identifying what type of stored product pest is in your home can be a difficult task. The best way to get an accurate identification is to contact a professional exterminator. Common types of stored product pests include:

Indian meal moths - Indian meal moths are 1/4th - 3/8th of an inch in length. Their front wings are bi-colored and their hind wings are a solid, pale gray. The young caterpillar is cream in color with a brown head.

Cigarette beetles - Cigarette beetles are oval in shape and are light brown in color. They are 1/16th to 1/8th of an inch in length with serrated antennae. Their head and prothorax are bent at a downward angle giving the beetle an overall humped appearance.

Sawtoothed grain beetle - They are 1/8th of an inch in length and have a brown, narrow, flattened body. They have six saw-like teeth on each side of their prothorax; they have wings but are not known to fly.

Stored Product Pest Treatment

You can vacuum up any stored product pests you see and throw away any infested items. If that doesn’t work, our recommendation is to contact a pest control company for help. With the correct tools, knowledge, and experience, a pro can help you attack your stored product pest problem quickly and effectively.

How To Prevent A Stored Product Pest Infestation

To prevent this type of infestation, you should always inspect items at the store. If there are any signs of damage to the box or container, don’t buy it. You should also rotate items in your pantry often, using the oldest staples first.