11 Food Storage Tips India Needs for Humid Weather

9. Protect rice and dals from pests

Pantry pests love humid months almost as much as we love a steaming bowl of rice. The simplest prevention combines clean practice with the right containers. Use sealed grain containers or food-grade bins for rice and dals, or transfer bought bags into glass jars if you buy small amounts. When bringing large sacks home, consider freezing new rice and dal for 48 hours to kill possible eggs, then allow items to come to room temperature before storing. Natural repellents like a few neem leaves or bay leaves tucked into container corners discourage pests without chemicals, and regular rotation reduces the chance of infestation. Check containers every few weeks; if you find evidence of pests, quarantine that batch immediately, wash and dry the container well, and either discard affected food or cook it thoroughly before eating. In humid climates, frequent small purchases outperform single large buys because they limit the window pests have to establish.