Weevils in flour are often not weevils at all. True weevils (with a snout) need a whole grain to lay their eggs in, such as rice and wheat, while fine flour is usually infested by flour beetles or pantry moth larvae. Knowing which one you have changes how you get rid of it.
What is in your flour?
| What you see | Most likely | Signs |
|---|---|---|
| A long reddish-brown insect 3 to 4 mm with no snout | Flour beetle | Flour turns grey with an odd smell |
| A dark insect with a clear snout | Grain weevil | Usually coming from wheat or rice nearby |
| White worms and silk threads like webbing | Pantry moth larvae | Clumps in the flour and small moths in the kitchen |
For rice weevils in detail, see Weevils in Rice. For moths, see Pantry and Flour Moths.
Where do flour pests come from?
- From the mill or warehouse: the eggs are tiny and invisible.
- From other infested food in the same cupboard: grains, spices, pasta, pet food.
- Long storage in an open bag in a warm place.
Is flour with weevils harmful?
- The insects themselves are not poisonous, but heavily infested flour changes in taste and smell and contains droppings and skins.
- Flour beetles release substances that give an unpleasant smell and a grey colour; throw such flour away.
- The rule: any flour that smells, has clumps or has changed colour should not be used.
How to get rid of weevils in flour
- Throw away infested flour in a sealed bag and take it out of the house.
- Check all grains and spices in the same cupboard, as infestation spreads.
- Freeze sound flour for 4 days to a week before storing.
- Empty the cupboard and vacuum corners, cracks and hinges, where flour pests hide.
- Wipe with soap and water and let it dry completely.
- Store in airtight containers of glass or strong plastic.
Caution: never spray insecticide on food or inside containers. Insecticide is only used in cupboard cracks from the outside after emptying it, or in stores by a professional.
Products from Orkida
Flour weevil FAQs
Can I sift the flour and use it?
If the infestation is very light and the flour smells normal, you can sift and freeze it. But if it smells or looks grey, throw it away.
Why do weevils come back after I throw the flour away?
Because the source is usually other food in the cupboard or insects hiding in cracks. You need to check everything and clean the whole cupboard.
Do bay leaves keep weevils out of flour?
They may repel slightly, but they do not kill eggs. Freezing and airtight containers are the solution.