How to Get Rid of Weevils in Your Pantry

The pantry – a haven for culinary creations and tasty treats – can sometimes become a breeding ground for unwelcome guests. Among these are Weevils, Rice Weevils, and Granary Weevils, both easily recognizable by their elongated snouts. Weevils are beetles belonging to the superfamily Curculionoidea. These small, herbivorous insects typically measure less than 6 mm (1⁄4 in) in length. There are approximately 97,000 known species of weevils.

Rice and More: A Weevil’s Feast

While some weevils reside outdoors, some species, like the rice weevil and granary weevil, have a particular fondness for our pantries. These grain guzzlers target a variety of dry goods, including:

• Rice
• Wheat
• Oats
• Cornmeal
• Dried fruit
• Pet food

Tiny Invaders, Big Problems with Weevils

These persistent pests can sneak into your pantry through various means:

• Hitching a ride: A single weevil in a bag of newly purchased grain can quickly multiply, infesting your entire pantry.
• Cracks and crevices: Despite their minute size, weevils can squeeze through tiny openings in packaging or enter through cracks in cabinets.

Open containers: Leaving containers of dry goods unsealed is a wide-open invitation for weevils to take up residence.

Keeping Your Pantry Weevil-Free

Here are some tips to fortify your pantry against a weevil invasion:

• Airtight containers: Invest in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or thick plastic for storing dry goods like grains, cereals, and nuts.
• Bay leaves and peppercorns: These natural repellents can be placed in your pantry to deter weevils.
• Regular cleaning: Maintain a clean pantry by wiping down shelves and inspecting containers for signs of infestation. Dispose of any infested food immediately.
• Quarantine: If you suspect you have weevils, quarantine infested items in sealed containers and freeze them for a few days to kill any weevils or eggs.

By following these preventative measures and remaining vigilant, you can keep your pantry a weevil-free zone and ensure your food stays fresh and free from contamination.

Remember: While black peppercorns may have some anecdotal repellent properties, scientific evidence for their effectiveness is limited. Maintaining a clean and organized pantry with airtight containers remains the best defense against weevils. Our Pest Prevention Plan includes Pantry Pests.