In the professional pest control sector we often witness cyclical phenomena: some pest species disappear for a certain period, only to re-emerge in an even more problematic way than before.

This has been the case recently with insects such as Nemapogon granellus (cereal moth) and Piophila casei (cheese fly) in dairy and ham production environments, as well as Necrobia rufipes in the pet food industry and, more recently, also in the highly matured cured meats industry.

This year too, some pests have returned with a vengeance, posing new challenges for prevention and intervention to Pest Control Operators.

Emerging or re-emerging species

Recently recurring infestations include:

1. Nemapogon granellus (Cereal moth)

• This particular affects dairy production, where it finds favourable conditions even at low temperatures.
• The presence of a sexual pheromone available for monitoring makes it possible to set up dedicated traps, although optimal use requires careful planning (density, positioning, temperatures).

2. Piophila casei (Cheese fly)

• Typically found in ham production plants, it can create serious health and hygiene problems.
• UV traps (ultraviolet lamps) can be highly effective, when installed at a height of about 1 metre or even at floor level.

3. Necrobia rufipes (Beetle of the Cleridae family)

• Its diffusion has been widespread since 2015, especially in the pet food industry, where it exploits the high protein content of the products.
• More recently, cases of infestation have also been recorded in the production of high-quality raw ham, in conjunction (but not cohabitation) with Piophila casei.

4. Dermestes spp.

• Often found with Necrobia rufipes in pet food establishments, as they share the same protein diet.
• It seems less prevalent in ham production plants, probably due to different thermal needs.

When and where they manifest

• Dairy production: presence of Nemapogon granellus and Piophila casei.
• Ham production sites: infestations of Piophila casei and Necrobia rufipes, the latter on the rise in recent years.
• Pet food industry: Necrobia rufipes (emerging species) and Dermestes spp.
• Environmental conditions: lower temperatures do not completely hinder the proliferation of Necrobia granellus and Piophila casei, while Dermestes spp. are more thermophilic.

Practical solutions and prevention

Combating these pests, once they become established, can be complex and cause significant damage to the warehouse, especially for products with long maturation periods.

This is why the cornerstones of control remain:

1. Prevention

Reducing food sources and areas where pests can develop (periodic cleaning, proper waste management).

Keeping facilities and storage areas in optimal hygienic conditions.

2. Targeted surveillance

• Pheromone traps for Necrobia granellus, to be installed in adequate numbers and in a strategic manner (possible reduced effectiveness at very low temperatures).
• UV traps (equipped with a glue strip) for Piophila casei and Necrobia granellus, preferably positioned low down (floor or max 1 m high).
• Food attractants developed in GEA laboratories for the monitoring of Piophila casei, Necrobia rufipes and Dermestes spp., to be placed near potential sources of infestation.

3. Identification and elimination of outbreaks

• Recognise areas of insect activity promptly (storage corners, areas that are not perfectly clean, spaces where residues accumulate).
• Implement targeted disinfection or sanitisation interventions in accordance with current regulations.

4. General cleaning and environmental management

• Frequent vacuuming of dust and organic residues.
• Proper ventilation and monitoring of humidity and temperature levels.

Advantages of InPest solutions

GEA’s inPEST brand provides Pest Control professionals with a series of products designed for monitoring and prevention, increasing the timeliness of interventions and thus reducing any damage.

In particular, the inPEST catalogue includes a complete range of trap solutions, monitoring systems and targeted consultancy.

In the online catalogue (available HERE), professionals can view;

• Pheromone traps specifically for food pests
• New-generation UV traps, designed for modular and flexible installation.
• Optimised food attractants for Piophila casei, Necrobia rufipes and Dermestes spp., tested in different production contexts and many more

You can also request qualified technical advice at any time to set up an ad hoc monitoring plan, evaluate optimal trap density and improve your IPM (Integrated Pest Management).

inPEST’s expertise in pheromone traps and other monitoring systems can make the difference in protecting food plants and ensuring high quality standards. Investing in active monitoring and surveillance is key to containing these threats and safeguarding the reputation of food brands.

Are you a pest control professional or a distributor specialising in the food industry?