Stored food pests are common in many Florida households and are often introduced through infested food items. Almost any food item in your kitchen or pantry can become infested if left unused and exposed in a dark corner or cabinet for too long. Products include spices, crackers, cereals, grits, and cake mixes. Even dried flower arrangements, stuffed furniture, and toys can harbor these pests, so here are some common “Pantry Pests” you might encounter: 

Flour Beetles 

The two most common beetles in pantries are the Red Flour Beetle and the Confused Beetle. Both are about 3 to 4 mm long with red-brown coloring. The main difference between them is that the Red Flour Beetle can fly. These beetles love flour and cereal but cannot eat whole grains; they rely on other insects to break them down. After thoroughly cleaning your pantry, pesticides can help eradicate these beetles. 

Spider Beetles 

Spider beetles are scavengers that feed on various materials, including grain products, seeds, dried fruits, meats, wool, feathers, and even rodent droppings. You can find them in food, warehouses, food-handling establishments, granaries, mills, and homes. Some species are only active at night, hiding in cracks and crevices during the day. While some can fly, others cannot, adding an element of surprise to their presence. 

Larder Beetles 

Larder beetles are common across the U.S. and the world. Both adults and larvae feed on animal products such as dried fish, ham, bacon, meats, cheese, and dried pet food. Adult females lay their eggs on suitable larval food or in cracks and crevices where such food is stored. 

Sawtoothed Grain Beetles 

Commonly found in kitchens and pantries, Sawtoothed Grain Beetles are about 2.5 to 3 mm long, cannot fly, and hate light. Their name comes from the six saw-like protrusions along the sides of their flat, brown bodies. They feed on cereals, flour, nuts, spices, and pet food but cannot digest whole grains. A thorough pantry cleaning and professional pesticide application can help eliminate these pests. 

Are Pantry Pests Dangerous? 

While pantry pests do not directly threaten your health, they can contaminate food sources, making them unfit for consumption. Consuming contaminated food can lead to illnesses like listeria, E. coli, and salmonella. 

Where Do Pantry Pests Live? 

Pantry pests are typically found indoors, especially in places with plenty of dry goods such as pantries, grocery stores, and food processing facilities. 

What Do Pantry Pests Eat? 

These pests are not picky. They are fond of grains, seeds, nuts, dried fruits, candies, red peppers, powdered milk, chocolate, and cake mix. 

What To Do When You Find Evidence of Pantry Pests? 

The best way to deal with pantry pests is to prevent them from infesting your food in the first place. Here are three tips to help you avoid pantry pests: 

• Store dried foods in plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids to keep insects out. 
• Keep your pantry clean and organized. Loose grains can attract insects, leading to infestations. 
• Check your pantry regularly. These insects are tiny and hard to see, so staying vigilant is key. 

Have pantry pests become too big a problem? Call Turner Pest Control for expert stored food pest control. Fill out our free inspection form today!