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Stark-Billings County |
Around the House
April 21, 2009
Get Rid of Those Bugs!
Many kinds of insects get into food products stored in kitchens and pantries. These pests can be brought inside the home any time year-round. Most of them are small beetles and moths and the young are wormlike.
When you see insects in your food products, you need to locate the food they are feeding on and remove it. If you are not sure whether a product has the insects in it or not, it can be heated in the oven at 130 degrees F. The product should be spread thin into trays or pans to help the product heat more evenly and quickly. The food product can also be placed in the freezer at 0 degrees for 4 days.
Be sure to clean the cupboard or storage area using soap and water and allow shelves to dry completely. You may use a household pesticide for crawling insects. Spray the shelves lightly and keep pesticide off your food, water and utensils. After the shelves are dry, cover them with clean paper or foil and replace food and dishes.
To prevent pests in the future, keep shelves clean and wipe up spills. Inspect newly purchased product for bugs before placing in the cabinet. Store all foods in cans or glass jars with tight fitting lids. Avoid plastic bags for storage. It may be best to buy smaller quantities so the food is used quickly. It is always a good idea to store pet food away from people food.
Grain-based products like flour, cereals, packaged mixes, desserts and pasta attract these pests, as well as rice, dried fruits and spices. Make it a habit to freeze a new product for four days in a freezer to prevent potential insect problems.
Also see Bugs in Your Cupboards
For more information contact:
Stark-Billings County Extension
Office
(701) 456-7665