Food Storage in Sealed Containers
Target Pests (8)
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Category |
|---|---|---|
| German Cockroach | Blattella germanica | Cockroaches |
| American Cockroach | Periplaneta americana | Cockroaches |
| House Mouse | Mus musculus | Rodents |
| Norway Rat | Rattus norvegicus | Rodents |
| Indian Meal Moth | Plodia interpunctella | Stored Product Pests |
| Rice Weevil | Sitophilus oryzae | Stored Product Pests |
| Confused Flour Beetle | Tribolium confusum | Stored Product Pests |
| Pharaoh Ant | Monomorium pharaonis | Ants |
Application Method
Store all boxed or loose food in containers that seal tight - plastic, glass, or coffee cans with lids. Store as much food in refrigerator as possible, especially foods kept for long time such as flours, rice, and nuts. For large bags of pet food, use metal garbage can with lid. Eliminates food sources for pests and prevents infestation of stored products. Essential IPM component that starves pests and prevents population growth.
Timing
Implement immediately when starting IPM program and maintain ongoing.
Frequency
Ongoing practice - permanent change in food storage habits.
Preparation Required
Purchase appropriate containers (plastic, glass, metal cans with tight-fitting lids). Inspect existing food for infestation. Clean pantry and cabinet areas.
Follow-up Required
Maintain practice indefinitely. Replace damaged containers. Inspect stored food regularly for pest activity. Keep storage areas clean.
Safety Precautions
- Check food for existing infestation before transferring to containers
- Clean containers before first use
- Label containers with contents and date
- Discard infested food in sealed plastic bags in exterior trash