How to identify “keede” in rice or grains: Prevention and hacks to remove them you must try

"Chawal keede," commonly known as rice weevils, are a prevalent nuisance in Indian kitchens. These tiny, dark brown to reddish-black insects infest stored grains such as rice, atta, and dal, potentially causing digestive issues if consumed. They thrive within the grains, feeding on them internally.

When washing rice, you might observe minuscule white larvae floating to the surface, or detect small holes in the grains, indicating their feeding activity. These worms typically flourish in damp and humid environments, particularly during the monsoon season, which provides an optimal breeding ground. Once reproduction commences, eradication becomes exceedingly difficult.

Identifying Rice Weevil Infestation

Regularly inspect your rice and grain products for the presence of small, black or brown beetles, approximately half the size of a rice grain. Be vigilant for signs of infestation, including sticky webs or silky strands accompanied by small clumps of broken rice, often found crawling within the packets. These webs are spun by rice weevil larvae and can be detected even before the insects themselves are spotted.

Preventing Weevil Infestations in Grains

Here's how you can prevent weevils from infesting your grains:

1. Store in airtight containers: Preserve rice and grains in sealed glass or plastic containers to prevent weevils from entering. Weevils can penetrate paper, cardboard, and thin plastic packaging.
2. Use natural repellents: Employ potent aromas such as bay leaves, cloves, garlic, and crushed peppercorns to deter weevils. These spices possess natural properties that repel weevils and prevent infestation.
3. Check food before storing: Examine dried food products for silky webs and indications of weevil contamination before storing them in your kitchen.
4. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep rice and grains in a cool, dry location or refrigerator. Weevils become inactive at temperatures below 55°F (13°C), inhibiting reproduction and infestation.
5. Buy in small quantities: Purchase rice and grains in small quantities to minimize the risk of weevil infestations. Smaller quantities reduce the likelihood of weevils pupating and transforming into adult beetles.
6. Check for silky webs: Inspect food packaging for silky webs, which may indicate weevil infestation. If webs are detected, discarding the food is advisable.
7. Maintain clean storage: Uphold clean storage areas and regularly monitor for signs of weevil infestation. Proper storage and routine checks can effectively prevent weevil infestations, ensuring a pest-free pantry.

Simple Home Remedies to Eliminate Weevils from Stored Grains

Effective eradication methods can help eliminate these pests from your kitchen, ensuring your stored grains remain safe and healthy for consumption.

1. Dry rice in sunlight: Expose infested grains to direct sunlight to eliminate weevils. Spread the rice evenly on a tray or newspaper and expose it to the hot sun for several hours. This process will kill weevils and their eggs.
2. Use a wet cloth trap: Cover the rice container with a wet cloth to trap weevils. Attracted to humidity, weevils will adhere to the cloth. After 30 minutes, discard the cloth and clean the rice.
3. Store in freezer: Store rice in the freezer for three days to kill weevils and their eggs. Cold temperatures halt the weevil's growth and prevent infestation.
4. Airtight containers: Store rice in airtight containers to prevent weevil infestation. Clean, dry, and tightly sealed containers will cause weevils to die due to lack of air.
5. Bay leaves and Neem leaves: Place dried bay or neem leaves in a rice container to repel weevils. These leaves possess natural properties and a strong aroma that prevent infestation.
6. Spice repellent: Utilize spices like ginger, cloves, and garlic to repel weevils. Place them in a rice container and replace them periodically. Weevils dislike the strong aromas of these spices.
7. Dried orange peel: Chop dried orange peel into small pieces and sprinkle it into the rice container wherever worms are present.
8. Matchbox trick: Place an open matchbox near grains to repel worms. Matchboxes contain sulphur, which worms dislike, keeping them away from grains.