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Pest Library · Stored product pestsIndian Meal Moths Identification Guide
How to identify Indian meal moths, the most common pantry pest in Ontario kitchens.
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How to identify
What pantry moths look like
Indian meal moths are small moths with wings that are pale grey near the body and coppery-brown at the tips.
Their larvae are small cream-coloured caterpillars that leave silky webbing in food.
Signs you have pantry moths
- Small moths flying in the kitchen, especially in the evening
- Webbing in flour, cereal, rice or nuts
- Small caterpillars crawling up walls and ceilings
Are they dangerous?
They do not bite or spread disease, but they contaminate food and spread quickly to every open package.
How to prevent them
- Store dry food in sealed glass or plastic containers
- Check bulk and pet food before storing
- Clean shelves and corners regularly
Quick facts
Scientific namePlodia interpunctella
Size8–10 mm
ColourGrey and copper-banded wings
Most activeYear-round indoors
Found inPantries, flour, grains, pet food
Risk levelLow (food contamination)
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