Indian meal moth (larva)

Natural Habitat

Worldwide in human structures, particularly pantries, food storage areas, and grain processing facilities.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on stored dry goods including grains, cereal, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chocolate, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae spin silk webbing as they feed, which contaminates the food source; late-stage larvae often crawl away from food to pupate in wall crevices or ceiling corners.

Risks & Benefits

Non-venomous and generally harmless to human health, but a major pest that causes significant economic loss and food spoilage through contamination.

Identified on: 5/11/2026