Expert: Carol Schlitt - 12/26/2006

Question
Hello and thanks for all your responses to the many questions you receive.
I have not been able to ask anyone what to do with the flour i purchase that has bugs in it.
I have been told that if the flour is not refrigerated, then the larvae will mature and fly out.
So does that mean they are there all the time? should i always sift the flour before using?
thanks for some guidance.
jb

Answer
Hi JB,

While it doesn't sound very appetizing, bug larvae and bug parts are allowed in flour in very small amounts as it is impossible to remove them entirely from the milling process and they are not harmful to eat.

Refrigerating flour will slow down the growth of bugs -- freezing will kill them.  Therefore, it is recommended to store flour in the freezer.

Since many people do not like eating bugs I suggest you pitch this bag of flour and start with a new bag. Or you could sift them out if you wish -- again they are not harmful to eat and will add protein to your diet!!!

I hope this answers your question.  If you have additional questions, please let me know.

Carol