Quick Identification Guide: Pests in the Kitchen Pantry

Identify the Type of Pests

• Pantry Moths (Indian Meal Moths): Small, grayish-brown moths that lay eggs in dry food products. Larvae are small, creamy-white, and often found in grains, cereals, and other dry goods.
• Grain Beetles (Sawtoothed or Merchant Grain Beetles): Tiny, brownish beetles with flat bodies. Often found in flour, cereals, and pasta. They can easily enter and infest food packages.
• Flour Beetles (Red or Confused Flour Beetles): Small, reddish-brown beetles that infest flour, grains, and other dry products.
• Weevils: Small, brownish insects with long snouts. Commonly found in rice, grains, and nuts.

Check for Physical Evidence

• Infested Food: Look for tiny holes in food packaging, webbing, or fine powder in and around food containers. Small larvae or adult insects may be visible.

Inspect Common Infestation Areas

• Dry Goods: Inspect all dry goods, including flour, rice, pasta, cereals, and pet food. Check both opened and unopened packages.
• Pantry Shelves and Containers: Look for pests or signs of them in pantry shelves, food storage containers, and corners where crumbs or food particles may accumulate.
• Undisturbed Areas: Check the back of shelves, the tops of containers, and other less frequently used areas where pests may hide or nest.