At what stages can food pantry pests infest food?

Food pantry pests can infest food at all stages, from the field to consumer storage, because these pests are often linked to agricultural practices, processing methods, and storage conditions throughout the supply chain.

Initially, pests can infest crops in the field as they grow, feeding on the plants or laying eggs on them, which can lead to contamination before harvest. Once harvested, the potential for pest infestation continues during processing, where food may come into contact with contaminated equipment, storage facilities, or even during transportation.

After food reaches the consumer, pantry pests can invade stored food items if proper storage practices are not followed, such as using airtight containers or maintaining clean pantry conditions. The lifecycle and reproductive habits of these pests allow them to thrive at any point from production to end-use, making it crucial for individuals and businesses to implement effective pest management strategies throughout the entire food handling process.