- By Bornika Das
- Mon, 12 May 2025 10:13 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Storage Hacks For Rice: Storing rice for periods can be tricky, especially when it comes to protecting it from common household pests like weevils and bugs. These pests can quickly ruin an entire batch of rice, making it unfit for consumption and leading to unnecessary waste. Although chemical pesticides might seem a quick fix, they are not ideal when it comes to food safety and long-term health. However, nature has provided effective and safe alternatives like haldi, neem and others that can be used in Indian households to protect rice from pests.
There are several kitchen ingredients that act as insect repellents, helping to keep rice fresh and pest-free. These natural remedies have anti-bacterial properties that keep the insects away. These natural remedies not only preserve the quality of your grains but also ensure that the pantry remains chemical-free. Here are five natural storage hacks that help you to protect rice from pests.
Natural Remedies To Protect Rice From Pests
Haldi
Haldi or turmeric act as an anti-repellent and is added to the containers of rice, lentils, or wheat to remove pests from grains. Using four to five pieces of haldi is believed to prevent weevils and extend the shelf life of the grains.
Neem
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.
Clove
One of the effective methods for protecting rice from pests 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.
Clove Protect Rice From Pests (Image Credits: Canva)
Red Chillies
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.
Garlic Cloves
Whole, unpeeled garlic cloves can also be used to prevent pests from infecting rice. 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.