Warning! If You Find This Tiny Insect in Your Kitchen, Check Your Pantry — Here’s How to Handle It Calmly - Page 2

Signs You Have a Pantry Moth Infestation

Try New FoodsSign What to Look For

Sightings Flying moths near your pantry or kitchen cabinets

Webbing Silky, web-like material in food containers, corners, or cracks

Larvae Small white caterpillars in food or crawling on surfaces

Pupae cases Small, brown cocoons

in cupboards

Food contamination Clumpy, webbed, or strange-smelling food

How to Handle a Pantry Moth Infestation

Step 1: Identify the Source

Go through your pantry and inspect everything. Check for webbing, larvae, or any signs of contamination.

Common sources include: Flour, cereal, grains, pasta, spices, dried fruit, nuts, pet food, birdseed, and any unsealed food.

Step 2: Discard Infected Items

If you find contaminated food, seal it in a plastic bag and throw it away. It’s best not to try to salvage it.

Step 3: Clean Thoroughly

Empty your pantry

completely.

Vacuum all shelves, corners, and cracks.