Let us know some easy and effective remedies, with the help of which your grains will not be infested with moths and insects during monsoon.

Due to increased humidity in the air during the rainy season, weevils and insects infest pulses, rice, and other grains become common. If stored improperly, the entire ration can spoil within a few days. However, by adopting a few simple kitchen tips, you can keep pulses and rice safe and fresh for a long time. 

How to protect pulses and rice from weevils and insects

• How to prevent rice weevils: Use bay leaves and cloves: Place 2-3 dried bay leaves in containers of lentils and rice. Their strong scent helps keep weevils and small insects away. Dried neem leaves also act as a natural insect repellent. Placing them in containers of lentils or rice prevents weevils.
• How to prevent lentils from getting infested with insects: People often recommend adding bay leaves, cloves, or camphor to lentils to protect them from insects. However, celebrity chef Pankaj Bhadoria recommends adding salt to lentils to protect them from insects. Salting evaporates moisture, preventing insects from breeding in them. This is a very effective and inexpensive way to prevent lentils from spoiling.

Keep these things in mind

• Store in an airtight container: Humidity is a major problem during the rainy season. Therefore, always store lentils and rice in clean, completely dry, airtight containers to prevent moisture from entering.
• Expose to sunlight: For long-term storage, expose the lentils and rice to sunlight for 2-3 hours every 15-20 days. This removes moisture and reduces the risk of pest infestation.
• Dry thoroughly before storing: After buying new pulses or rice, if there is even slight moisture in them, then dry them in the sun or fan air for some time and then fill them in the box.
• Store in a dry place: Store ration containers in a place with minimal humidity. Avoid placing them near sinks, gas stoves, or damp walls.

PC: India TV