As the price of staple grains like rice continues to rise, households are increasingly turning to traditional methods to prevent food wastage caused by insect infestation.
Rice, being a costly and essential grain, is particularly vulnerable to weevils and other pests. However, several time-tested home remedies can help people preserve their rice and reduce financial loss.
Clove – Natural Insect Repellent: One effective method is placing a few cloves in the rice container. The natural compounds found in cloves act as deterrents to insects, preventing them from nesting in the grain. This simple tip is both safe and easy to follow.
Sunlight Treatment and Neem Leaves: If rice is already infested, it can be spread out under direct sunlight for one to two hours. The heat effectively eliminates weevils and other insects. Afterwards, dry neem leaves and twigs can be bundled and placed inside the container. Alternatively, neem leaves may be ground into small pills, dried, and added to the container as a preventative measure.
Turmeric Knots: Turmeric knots are often added to containers of rice, lentils, or wheat. Using 4 to 5 pieces is believed to prevent weevils and extend the shelf life of the grains.
Red Chillies for Added Protection: Dry red chillies are another traditional deterrent. Their strong smell and pungency make them effective in keeping pests at bay. This method works well for rice, wheat, pulses, and other grains, preventing infestation by white insects and red ants.
Using Boric Acid: Another lesser-known remedy involves wrapping boric acid powder in a clean cloth and pressing the bundle into the middle of the rice container. This technique helps in eliminating existing insects. However, it is crucial to wash the rice thoroughly, at least four to five times, before cooking if this method is used.
Matchsticks: An age-old remedy that’s seeing a revival is the matchstick method. Placing 8 to 10 matchsticks inside a rice container can deter weevils. The sulphur in the match heads is thought to act as a repellent.
Garlic Cloves: Whole, unpeeled garlic cloves can also be used. When placed in rice, their strong aroma helps repel pests. It’s important not to peel the garlic, as doing so could introduce moisture and lead to spoilage. For extra protection, the container can be left open in the sun for a few hours to drive insects out naturally.
Incorporating these simple yet effective techniques into everyday storage habits can go a long way in safeguarding essential grains. With food costs on the rise, these age-old home remedies can be both economical and reliable for Indian households.