Don't Let Pantry Pests Ruin The Holidays

Janay Rickwalder

As holiday season kicks into full swing, family and friends will gather in kitchens across the country to enjoy their favorite holiday treats. But some uninvited guests may also come to the table this year.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) encourages homeowners to be aware of pantry pests, or insects that tend to gather around food often stored in pantries and cabinets. Common pantry pests include Indian meal moths and Merchant Grain Beetles. 

To keep these pests from spoiling the holiday cheer, or at least the baked goods, it’s important to immediately wipe up any crumbs or spills from countertops, tables, floors and shelves, and store food in airtight containers. Also, add a bay leaf to canisters and packages of dry goods like flour, rice and other grains- their pungent scent repels many pantry pests. Don’t forget to check expiration dates on baking ingredients before use!