Indian Meal Moth Larva

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in pantries, kitchens, and food storage areas where dried food products are present. They can infest homes, grocery stores, food processing plants, and warehouses.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae primarily feed on dried foods such as grains, cereals, nuts, dried fruit, pet food, and spices. They can also feed on chocolate and other processed foods.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically found in infested food sources, where they feed and grow. They are often seen crawling out of food packages when development is complete, looking for a place to pupate. The adult moths are nocturnal and are attracted to lights.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include infesting and contaminating stored food products, rendering them unfit for consumption. They can cause significant economic losses in food industries and homes. There are no known direct benefits, but they are part of the larger ecosystem.

Identified on: 8/10/2025