9 signs you have evil weevils in your pantry!

Weevils are often referred to as flour bugs because that is where they are often found. There are thousands of varieties of weevils, and they are often difficult to see.  

Weevils will feed on things such as rice, flour, nuts, beans, cereals, seeds, and corn. They also love dog food and pasta. The problem is that they are often invisible to the naked eye, until there are so many, you can’t miss them!  

Early signs to look out for

1. A fine dust inside or outside of food containers. The powder happens as a weevil gorges itself full of the dry food that it’s managed to get into.

2. Damaged packets, such as cardboard boxes and plastic packaging with small holes where the weevil has burrowed in.  

3. Fine webbing in starchy foods such as oats, rice, nuts, or sugar – this can be a sign it’s laid eggs.

4. Holes in kernels (such as popping corn). Female weevils chew holes in kernels, where they lay their eggs. When the eggs hatch, the young feed on the kernels from the inside. Once they are fully grown, weevils eat their way out of the grains, leaving holes behind.  

5. A musty odour – weevils create a strong scent.

6. Thin, brown ‘shells’ which are actually insect remains. Dead weevils, stray legs, and moulted skin will look like tiny brown particles strewn in the food.  

Clean out your pantry

If you already have an infestation, it’s time for a pantry spring clean. Any open containers packets of food should be sealed and thrown away at once. Even unopened cardboard food cartons may contain these pesky critters if they don't have sealed inner liners that are intact.  

Thoroughly vacuum food-storage areas and clean them with hot soapy water – then give them a wipe with white vinegar. Any storage containers should also be thoroughly washed.  

Tips to keep your pantry weevil-free

• When buying dry goods, check the seals and the bottom of the bags for evidence of weevils such as tiny holes.
• Put food into clean, airtight containers.
• Some people swear by putting bay leaves in their cupboards to keep weevils away. You should avoid using chemical treatments as most are not safe to use around food.
• Clean up spills immediately.
• Do not add new, fresh food to old and always wash containers before refilling.
• Store pet foods, birdseed, etc. away from the house or well away from other foods.
• Do not buy bagged or boxed foods with torn or damaged packaging.
• Avoid foods which are past their ‘best before’ dates.
• Don’t overstock; buy what you expect to use quickly or store excess in the fridge or freezer.
• Keep food storage areas dry; weevils are attracted to moisture.
• Regularly clean pantry cracks, crevices, and shelves.
• Check regularly for reappearance — it may take a while to get rid of them completely.