The insect pests of stored products are very numerous and it is not possible to discuss them all in detail.
Generally these insects live under very specific conditions.
They are found generally in dried products, such as:
Dates, Raisins, Sultanas, Currants, Prunes and similar dried fruits;
Bran, Cereals, Flour, Grain, Macaroni, Spaghetti and similar products
Cheese, Dried milk, Beans, Nuts, Chocolate
STORED PRODUCT INSECTS can be divided into 4 broad groups:
1. Internal feeders: the larvae feed entirely within the grain kernels (i.e. Rice weevil, granary weevil),
2. External Feeders: these insects chew through the food from the outside of the kernel (i.e. Drug store beetle, Grain beetle, Cigarette beetle),
3. Scavagers: these insects feed on grain and seeds only after they have been broken, either mechanically or by some other insect (i.e. Confused flour beetle, Mediterranean flour moth)
4. Secondary Pests: these pests feed on material that in poor condition, damp or moldy (i.e. Mealworms, Psocids, Mites).
Control
1. Control of STORED PRODUCTS INSECTS depends very much on prompt removal of infested material, and it is almost impossible to control the infestation unless this is done.
2. Many STORED PRODUCT INSECTS are strong flyers, also their larvae may crawl considerable distances; and where the insects are found does not necessarily indicate the source of infestation.
3. It is very important that all susceptible products be stored under conditions that will reduce the possibility of infestation of/from other materials.
4. Housekeeping should be maintained at a high level, floors, walls, counters, shelves, storage areas, must be kept free from any materials that could become breeding and/or hiding places for these pests.
5. Food products should be kept in tightly closed containers when not being used – preferably in a cool location such as a refrigerator or freezer.
6. Pheromone traps should be installed to give early warning and identification of possible infestations.