What Are Pantry Pests?
Pantry pests and bugs in pantry are insects that infest stored food products, including grains, cereals, flour, nuts, and dried fruit. In Lexington, KY, pantry pests can quickly become a major nuisance, contaminating food supplies and causing frustration for homeowners and businesses alike.
Common Pantry Pest / Bugs in Pantry in Lexington, KY
The most common pantry pests found in Lexington homes include:
1. Indian Meal Moths (Plodia interpunctella)
- Size: 1/2 inch wingspan
- Color: Reddish-brown with a coppery sheen on the outer half of the wings
- Behavior: Indian meal moths are one of the most common pantry pests in Lexington, KY. Their larvae feed on stored grains, cereals, flour, nuts, and dried fruit. Adult moths do not feed but lay eggs near food sources, leading to recurring infestations.
2. Cigarette Beetles (Lasioderma serricorne)
- Size: 1/8 inch long
- Color: Light brown with a humped, oval-shaped body
- Behavior: These beetles infest dried tobacco, pet food, spices, and stored food products. They can chew through packaging to access food sources.
3. Drugstore Beetles (Stegobium paniceum)
- Size: 1/10 inch long
- Color: Brown with fine ridges along their wing covers
- Behavior: Similar to cigarette beetles, drugstore beetles infest dried foods, spices, and pharmaceuticals, making them a common pest in pantries and storage areas.
4. Weevils (Rice and Grain Weevils)
- Size: 1/8 to 1/4 inch long
- Color: Dark brown or reddish-brown
- Behavior: Weevils are small beetles that infest grains, pasta, rice, and flour. Unlike other pantry pests, weevils develop inside whole grains, making them harder to detect until the infestation spreads.
Signs of a Pantry Pest Infestation
- Small moths flying near pantries and cupboards
- Larvae, webbing, or cocoons in food packaging
- Tiny beetles crawling inside stored food containers
- Fine powdery residue in flour, grains, or cereal
How to Get Rid of Pantry Pests and Bugs in Pantry in Lexington, KY
Inspect and Discard Infested Food
- Check all dry food products for signs of infestation.
- Dispose of any contaminated items in sealed plastic bags to prevent further spread.
Clean and Sanitize Pantry Areas
- Vacuum shelves, corners, and cracks to remove eggs and larvae.
- Wipe down surfaces with vinegar or soapy water to eliminate lingering pests.
- Store food in airtight glass or plastic containers to prevent reinfestation.
Prevent Future Infestations
- Inspect grocery items for signs of pests before bringing them inside.
- Rotate food stock regularly and use older products first.
- Keep grains, pet food & treats in sealable containers to prevent the spreading of pantry pests.
FAQ: Pantry Pests and Bugs in Pantry in Lexington, KY
Q: Can pantry pests spread to other areas of my home?
A: Yes, pantry pests can migrate to other dry food sources if not controlled quickly.
Q: Are pantry pests harmful if consumed?
A: While they are not dangerous to eat, their presence in food is unsanitary and unappetizing.
Q: Can I get rid of pantry pests without throwing away food?
A: In some cases, freezing or heating infested food may kill pests, but it’s best to discard contaminated items.
Professional Pantry Pest and Bugs in Pantry Control in Lexington, KY
Pantry pests can be difficult to eliminate due to their ability to reproduce quickly and infest multiple food sources. At Berner Pest Solutions, we offer comprehensive pantry pest control in Lexington, KY, to help protect your food supply and keep your home pest-free.
➡ Dealing with pantry pests? Contact Berner Pest Solutions today for a free inspection and effective pantry pest treatment!