PEST LIBRARY
MEDIUM RISK
Stored Product Insects
Stored product insects (SPIs) are a group of beetles and moths that infest dry food goods — including cereals, rice, flour, pulses, spices, and nuts. They are a significant concern for Qatar’s food retail, catering, and warehouse sectors. Infestations spread rapidly through packaging and are often introduced via already-affected products
SIGNS OF INFESTATION
- Insects or larvae visible inside food packaging, fine powder, clumping, or webbing inside dry food containers,
- unusual smell or taste in affected food products,
- small holes in sealed food packaging,
- adult beetles or moths flying near food storage areas
PREVENTION TIPS
- Exclusion: Store all dry goods in sealed, hard-sided containers—not original packaging.
- Habitat Alteration: Rotate stock regularly using first-in, first-out practice
- Sanitation Practices: Keep storage areas clean, dry, and well-ventilated
- Inspection: Schedule regular professional inspections for food warehouses and catering facilities, inspect all incoming dry food stock before placing it in storage.