Pantry Pests

Professional Pantry Pest Control Kansas City MO

Pantry pest is a term utilized in reference to insect species that infiltrate commercial and residential buildings in hopes of accessing vulnerable non-perishable food packages. The insect species that meet the criteria to be classified as a pantry pest feed on non-perishable food, such as dry cereal, pet food, and fruit.

The most commonly reported pantry pest sighting in Kansas city involves the Indian meal moth and cigarette “tobacco” and saw-toothed grain beetle species. All of these pantry pests invade homes and commercial establishments, such as restaurants and supermarkets, hoping to score an endless supply of stored food products.

When food is readily available, some pantry pest species become prolific breeders. Pantry pests do not discriminate between houses or businesses. Regardless of housekeeping habits, pantry pest infestation is always a possibility.

How To Differentiate Between Pantry Pest Species?

Pantry Pest – Indian Meal Moth

The Indian meal moth “Plodia interpunctella” is a unique pantry pest with distinguishable physical characteristics. Layers of reddish/orange and tan layer the insect’s wings, which are slightly longer than most other pantry pest species.

The adult Indian meal moth does not feed on pantry foods. The damage detected in infested homes is the result of the Indian meal moth larvae, not the adult. Females spin cocoons to protect their eggs from predators.

The diet consists of flour, crackers, and cookies stored in vulnerable manufacturing packagings.

Pantry Pest – Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle

The saw-toothed grain beetle “Oryzaephilus surinamensis” grows to one-tenth of an inch in length, with unique projects near the thorax that replicates the blade of a hand saw. The saw-toothed projections are utilized to fight off predators and forage for food. The insect relies on its saw-toothed projects to rip through vulnerable manufacturing food packages made of paperboard and thin plastic.

The adult and larvae feed on pantry foods, which explains the damage in your kitchen.

The diet consists of birdseed, homemade candies, cornmeal, spices, and cat food stored in paper packaging.

Pantry Pest – Cigarette Beetles

As the name implies, cigarette beetles prefer consuming cured tobacco products. They’re approximately an eighth of an inch and have a humped back. They can feed on many products, including tobacco, chili powder, nuts, candy, and pet foods.

Reasons You Have Pantry Pests

You have pantry pests because you bought infested products. It is possible for these pests to invade your home from the outside, but it doesn’t happen often. Instead, most infestations occur because someone purchased infested food products. It only requires a few insects to create a full-blown infestation. They live in their food source so they can breed around the clock.

Primary Signs

It is pertinent to find out how to identify a pantry pest infestation sooner. Pantry pests are easy to ignore because they’re small and blend in with their food sources. You’ll likely identify the problem when you find small moths around your kitchen. You can also look for beetles. When you find these pests in your home, call a professional.

Dangers

Although Indian meal moths and other pantry pests are annoying, they’re not dangerous. You can eat the pests and their larvae without getting ill. They do not bite or transmit illnesses. However, you don’t want to live with them. The problem is that they’re going to destroy your food sources.

As a result, you’ll waste a lot of money replacing the food in question. Get rid of them and save money.

Preventing Problems

You can take steps to prevent a future pantry pest infestation. For starters, you need to make sure that your food is stored in airtight containers. Use a tough material that the larvae won’t be able to chew through. Also, make sure that your pantry shelves are cleaned thoroughly. Get rid of food crumbs and leftovers.

When buying new food products, never combine them with old products. Instead, you’ll want to use a new container. If you’re going to use an old container, empty the contents and clean it first. Don’t forget that you can test for pantry pests. Put the food product in a plastic bag, seal it, and let it sit for a month.

If you find moths in the bag, you have a problem.

Eliminating Pantry Pests

You might be able to eliminate a pantry pest infestation without professional assistance. To do that, you will need to take precise steps. Just remember that some DIY methods are not effective. Therefore, there is a risk that you’re going to end up wasting your time and energy. To deal with a pantry pest infestation, be sure to use the advice below.

Get rid of any items that may contain pantry pests. Be sure to seal the food in a plastic bag before tossing it in the garbage.

All items should be removed from the shelves so you can clean them thoroughly. Use a vacuum to get rid of food crumbs. Then, wipe down the walls.

Wash all surfaces in the pantry.

Some over-the-counter products are effective, but others are not. Therefore, you cannot risk wasting your time and money. Doing so will give the pests time to reproduce. Work with a professional to deal with the issue swiftly and effectively.

When Can You Begin?

We’re ready to begin helping you. We’ll call you back within 48 hours and reach your home shortly after that.

Our Treatments Are Safe

When you work with us, you can rest assured knowing we use safe, reliable solutions. Our company offers pantry pest solutions that use EPA-registered products. Doing so allows us to fix the problem while keeping everyone safe. We’re confident we can fix the problem while protecting our clients and the people they love. Plus, our methods do not harm pets or plants.

Preventing Pantry Pest Invasions

Homeowners need to do everything they can to prevent future pantry pest invasions. When purchasing food products, it is a good idea to check them carefully. You’ll want to check these food sources to ensure that they’re free of pests. Check the food products you purchase before bringing them into your home. Otherwise, you may regret it.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.