How To Get Rid Of Rice Weevils: If small brown insects start appearing in the rice container or small holes are seen in the grains, then understand that the rice has been infested by weevils. This problem definitely occurs at one time or the other in most of the households that buy and keep 10 to 25 kg of rice. The good thing is that it does not require any medicine or chemical spray. By adopting the right methods one can get rid of the weevils and the rice can be kept safe in the future also.
What are mites?
Weevils are small brown insects, which lay eggs inside rice grains. Their larvae eat the grains from inside and later come out. This is the reason why many times even after purchasing packaged rice, mites start appearing in it within a few weeks. In fact, eggs may already be present inside the grains and when warm conditions are obtained, insects emerge from them. If small round holes are seen in the rice, fine powder accumulates at the bottom of the container, small insects are seen crawling or the rice starts to smell stale, then these are signs of weevil infestation. In such a situation, it is important to take immediate action, because even a few mites can multiply rapidly in a short time.
How can it be cleaned?
In case of weevil infestation, first of all spread the rice in a big plate and keep it in the sun for 15 to 20 minutes. Bright light and heat cause most adult mites to come out. After this, filter the rice through a fine sieve so that insects and fine dirt are separated. It is better to remove those grains in which holes are visible. Wash the rice thoroughly two to three times before cooking. If the weevils do not reappear, keep the cleaned rice in the freezer for 48 hours. Due to this, the eggs and larvae present inside the grains are also destroyed. This method is considered to be the most effective.
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What is its home remedy?
Bay leaves, neem leaves, dry red chilli and turmeric are also used as home remedies. These do not completely eliminate the mites, but can help to some extent in preventing the arrival of new insects. Therefore, use them only as a supportive measure. The problem of mites increases most during the rainy season, because moisture and heat create a favorable environment for their growth. In such a situation, always keep rice in an airtight container and avoid keeping it in an open sack or loose plastic bag. Every time, take out as much rice as needed and immediately close the container tightly, so that air and moisture cannot enter inside.
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