Indian Meal Moth (Larva/Pupa stage)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in kitchens, pantries, and food processing facilities globally.

Diet & Feeding

Stored grains, flour, cereal, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae spin characteristic silken webbing throughout food sources while feeding; they often crawl away from food sources to pupate in wall crevices or ceilings.

Risks & Benefits

Significant household pest; contaminates food with silk, excrement, and shed skins. They do not bite or sting but cause economic loss through food spoilage.

Identified on: 3/14/2026