How To Keep Weevils Out Of Beans And Rice
June 14, 2024
source: The Citizen
If you’ve never heard of a weevil before, you’re not alone. However, you probably already know what one is. Weevils are long-nosed bugs commonly referred to as “flour bugs,” simply for the reason that you will often find them in dried grains and starches including flour, rice, beans, and cornmeal. These tiny beetles are harmless to humans, but they can invade your dried food items. Fortunately, there are a few helpful tips that can prevent this from happening.
Firstly, it’s important to know that weevils can fly and burrow their way inside your house, pantry, and food containers. Some weevil species can live for months, so when an infestation begins, be prepared to throw out any food items they’ve invaded. The first step in preventing weevils from invading your food is to clean your cupboards regularly. Throw out expired pantry items and vacuum shelves regularly to get rid of any larvae that likely isn’t detectable to the naked eye.
Secondly, it’s extremely helpful to store your dried goods in airtight containers, as weevils have a far easier time making their way into cardboard boxes and paper or plastic bags. Keeping your cupboards clean and your food in plastic or glass air-tight containers is wonderful prevention, but if you want to go the extra mile, this next tip is for you.
Weevils detest garlic, bay leaves, and cloves. To prevent them from making your pantry foods their home, consider putting a few bay leaves or garlic cloves on your shelves, or placing a small mesh bag filled with cloves in your pantry. Other insects also detest these smells, so you’ll be well-equipped to keep many different types of bugs out of your food. I’ll be adding these steps to my weekend to-do list!