Watch Out For Pesky Pantry Pests This Holiday Baking Season

The National Pest Management Association shares tips for keeping pests out of your pantry and baking ingredients leading up to the holiday season. 

FAIRFAX, VA (November 15, 2023) – It’s that time of year again! The holiday season has quickly arrived and so have the fun activities that come along with it. Whether you’re trying a new dish from TikTok or following a trusted family recipe, holiday baking is a staple in most households during this time of year. To help keep your sweet treats tasty and pest-free, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is sharing key information about common pantry pests and prevention tips every baker should know.  

“When the holidays approach, many families dig out baking ingredients from the back of their pantry that haven't been used since the previous year," says Dr. Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA. "If not stored properly, these food sources may have attracted pests like rodents or beetles, making food contamination a serious concern. It's important to thoroughly examine all food products before using them and discard any that may have been infested." 

It's possible for a variety of pests to end up in your pantry or cupboards, but the most common are Indian meal moths, sawtooth grain beetles, and drugstore beetles. Fortunately, none of these pests pose a serious threat to health or property, but they can become a major nuisance if not promptly addressed.  

NPMA recommends the following tips for keeping pantry pests out of your holiday baking festivities this year:  

• Store ingredients properly in sealed, airtight containers to prevent pests from getting inside.  
• Shop smart by carefully inspecting packaging for any damage or signs of pests before purchasing.  
• Periodically check your pantry for expired items and discard anything past date. 
• Immediately wipe up crumbs or spills on your countertops, tables, floors, and shelves. 
• Dispose of garbage regularly in sealed trash receptacles. 
• Keep a look out for cracks or holes where pests may be able to enter your home, especially around stove and water pipes.   

If you find pantry pests in your kitchen, discard the infested food and clean all the shelves in your pantry with a vacuum. If an infestation has taken hold, contact a licensed pest professional to identify and treat the problem.  

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