Stored product insects (SPIs) are one of the top pest concerns in food production and storage across the globe.
Stored product insects are exactly what they sound like: insects that live and breed in stored products, like whole grains or processed foods, and even tobacco. There are many types of SPI in the UK, with the two most common being beetles and moths. Another type of SPI we come across in the UK are weevils, which are a type of beetle (pictured here is a rice weevil).
The main reason we control SPIs is the incredible damage and contamination they cause to foodstuffs, raw materials and finished products. SPIs not only eat these products, they breed in them and can spread quickly, contaminating a huge amount of product which is then unfit for human consumption.
Just a few stored product insects that are common in the UK include:
- Rice weevil
- Biscuit beetle
- Indian meal moth
- Grain weevil
- Confused flour beetle
- Saw toothed grain beetle
- Larder beetle
- Mill moth.
It is very difficult to prevent SPI’s from entering your home altogether as they are usually brought inside packets and boxes that were packed elsewhere and already contaminated. However it is possible to prevent any serious spread of any insects by having good storage and hygiene practices in your kitchen. Store open food in sealed containers and regularly clean and hoover out food cupboards and larders.
If you suspect an infestation, throw away the contaminated products and call in the professionals. We will survey to identify the species of SPI and advise on the next course of action. Usually this involves an insecticidal spray followed by non toxic monitoring to ensure that the problem has gone. We will look at the overall environment of the area affected and advise on what can be done as preventative measures.
Click here to enquire about EnviroShield stored product insect pest control services.
EnviroShield Pest Management - Bishops Stortford 