Bugs are all around us. Some are good for the environment, but others are annoying when they invade our homes and show up where we least expect them.

Imagine finding insects in stored foods, even in unopened bags. Strange, isn’t it? These tiny insects found in rice are common pantry pests found all over the world.

Scientifically called the rice weevil, it is as small as a sesame seed but has a snout as sharp as a small drill.

Female rice weevils lay eggs when the rice is in the fields. First, they use their nose to make a small hole in a grain of rice, lay an egg inside and seal the hole with their secretions, making them almost impossible to detect at first.

Even after processing and packaging, the eggs hidden in the grains remain alive. The heat and humidity inside the home help these insects hatch, develop into larvae, and grow into flying insects.

Note: These rice bugs or weevils are not poisonous. Even if you eat rice with them, you won’t get sick. But the nutritional value is slightly lower.

How to spot infected rice? Look for small brown or black insects, holes in the grains, or powder at the bottom of the container.

Now let’s check out some ways to prevent this. First, don’t buy too much rice in advance.

Keep rice for 24-48 hours in the freezer after purchase to prevent egg development. Then transfer it to an airtight container.

You should also store rice grains in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or thick plastic.

More jugaad forums? Natural insect repellents such as bay leaves, cloves, or dried neem leaves can help keep rice bugs away naturally.

Additionally, you should clean the racks regularly and avoid mixing new rice with old stock to keep your rice bug-free and your kitchen worry-free.