Keep Pantry Pests Out of Food Storage Areas This Holiday Season

The National Pest Management Association shares tips for keeping common pantry pests from spoiling your holiday baking recipes

FAIRFAX, VA (November 12, 2019) – With the holiday season upon us, bakers are tying on their aprons, dusting off their rolling pins and breaking out their favorite holiday recipes. However, holiday cheer can be quickly ruined when you find necessary ingredients ruined by pantry pests. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) says certain insects can infest and contaminate food in pantries and can become difficult to control.

“The most common pantry pests are Indian meal moths and merchant grain beetles. These particular pests can reproduce quickly and become an unwanted nuisance for homeowners during the holiday season,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA. “Pantry pests are also called stored-product pests and infest dry ingredients such as flour, grains and cereals. They can infest products during the manufacturing process, at grocery stores and can spread to other products within your pantry.”

NPMA recommends the following tips to prevent unwanted pantry visitors this holiday season:  

• Store ingredients and snacks properly in plastic or glass containers with an airtight seal to prevent pests from getting inside.
• Inspect boxes and bags for any damage or holes at the grocery store before purchasing to avoid bringing any pests home with you.
• Check the expiration dates on your ingredients before use and dispose of anything stored for an extended period of time.
• Clean up any crumbs or spills from countertops, tables, floors and shelves, and dispose of garbage regularly in a sealed receptacle.

If you discover a pantry pest infestation in your home, discard all contaminated items and contact a licensed pest professional for assistance in treating the problem.

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About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.