The most effective strategy for preventing stored product pests is a three-layer defense.

First layer: Start preventing at the time of purchase.

Choose vacuum-packed or well-sealed products — avoid buying bulk grains (bulk grains have more exposure to air and pests, making them more likely to carry eggs).

After purchase, immediately place grains and dry goods in the freezer at -18 °C for 48 hours — the low temperature kills any eggs that may already be present.

Second layer: Airtight storage.

Transfer all dry goods (rice, flour, beans, nuts, dried fruit, spices, cereal, pet food) from their original packaging into airtight glass jars or rigid plastic containers — original packaging offers almost no defense against stored product pests.

Airtight containers also allow you to visually check the condition of the food — crawling live bugs or silk webbing are immediately obvious.

Third layer: Regular inspection and "First In, First Out" (FIFO).

Check the pantry monthly — open jars to look for live insects, moth webbing, or powdery debris.

Label jars with the purchase date, and place older food at the front to be used first.

Do not stockpile dry goods that cannot be consumed within 3–6 months — the longer the storage time, the higher the probability of infestation.

Place a few bay leaves (laurel leaves) or dried chili peppers in the corners of the pantry — their natural repellent effect is limited but harmless.