By the time a stored food pest problem is reported, you might already be dealing with multiple generations of an infestation. It has always seemed the tolerance level in a residential setting is higher than a food production facility. A moth here and there isn’t a real problem for a homeowner and often is mistaken for something else — that is, until the larvae start moving around in their cereal or oatmeal.
Pinpointing the source and zeroing in your treatments are the first parts to resolving the problem quickly. Your customer’s cooperation (or lack thereof) will determine your success rate. Simply tossing out the infested product might not always yield results because some store food pest larvae will migrate away from the original infestation.
Giving a customer your preparation for treatment sheets before treatment or having downloadable forms is effective, but keep it simple. Clear and concise checklists seem to work best.
Another effective tool is a passive monitoring system – a covered glueboard that’s covered to protect itself from dust or accidental contact. These devices offer customers peace of mind and give them the ability to monitor the success of the treatment. A covered glueboard with or without pheromones also will catch other pests, such as roaches or silverfish, that might haven’t been seen or reported to you, which can lead to additional revenue if you include these pests in your warranty.
One trick pest management professionals (PMPs) have used between moth control services is stapling paper glueboards near cracks and crevices in the back of a cabinet to catch emerging larvae and flying insects in search of a resting place.
James Rodriguez, Western Territory Manager – J.T. Eaton & Co.
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