Kitchens are go-to spots for store product pests

Mel Whitson, Senior Field Technical Service Manager, Zoëcon Professional Products

Insects often are looking for the same things humans are: food, water and shelter. Kitchens offer all three.

And because we prepare and store food in our kitchens and pantries, they are go-to spots for store product pests (SPP), too. It’s important to remember that SPP prevention is the best remedy.

Following a few simple guidelines will help your customers keep common pantry pests like red flour beetles (Tribolium castaneum) and lesser grain borers (Rhyzopertha dominica) out of their stored food. For example:

• Seal food containers and store items appropriately.
• Keep track of expiration dates and best if used by (BIUB) dates, and discard food items as they age.
• Deep-clean areas around appliances such as toasters and ovens. Crumbs and flour can accumulate over time.
• Seal cracks and crevices around countertops to prevent food matter buildup.
• Keep pet food and feed stored in temperature-controlled rooms. Garages, unfinished basements and other non-temperature-controlled areas can accumulate moisture.

Remember, moisture and temperature are very important elements for SPP. Add expired food, and you provide the perfect habitat.