What are pantry pests and how do they get into products?
Given the right conditions such as warm humid weather and prolonged storage of a product, these pests can develop in food processing plants, warehouses, stores and homes. It is often difficult to determine how or when products became infested. These organisms are not harmful, but can destroy grains, cereals, nuts and dried fruit given the opportunity. To prevent pantry pests, keep your pantry shelves clean, inspect all food packages for damage, and sterilize doubtful products with 140-degree heat for 30 minutes in the oven or for three to four days in a home freezer at 0 degrees. You also can transfer foods to sealed containers.
