Updated on July 16, 2024
If you've ever found pantry moths fluttering around your kitchen, you might wonder what happens if one accidentally ends up in your meal—or worse, swallowed. While the thought might be unsettling, it's important to assess the real risks involved.
This article explores whether ingesting pantry moths can pose health risks and what you should know about these common kitchen invaders.
Will I get sick if I swallow a pantry moth?
Consuming a pantry moth is essentially harmless to a human. Thank goodness. Their eggs may end up in our cereal, before we even have the chance to pour it out into a bowl. Their larvae may be discovered in an unsealed plastic bag of pasta, which is why you should avoid eating pasta if you see it wiggling. But, if a few eggs accidentally go down with that bite of coco puffs or you feel something wiggling in your throat as it makes its way further down your esophagus, you’re going to be okay. Really. I’ll say it again. You’re going to be okay.
Pantry moths, like many other insects that might occasionally make their way into your belly, will simply be digested. You could also ingest an arthropod—like a spider, a mite or a tick—and be fine. Additionally, you’d be okay if you inhaled another insect, like a gnat, a fly, a mosquito or a bedbug.
Here’s the best news: Pantry moths do not produce toxins or carry diseases. They are not known to spread any known disease, parasites or pathogens.
When might I swallow a pantry moth?
To be honest, I think we all swallow a bug from time to time. Remember that bike ride, many moons ago, with your best friend? One minute, you were laughing so hard—your head cocked back and your mouth agape, tears rolling down your cheeks—as he recounted a story about a fishing trip with his dad, and then the next minute, you realize that something had flown into your very open mouth. You felt a flitter in the back of your throat—next to your uvula—and then, in a rush, you swallowed it. Gulp.
This is a common insect-swallowing occasion. You could also swallow a bug while running, simply inhaling too sharply, on that roller coaster at an amusement park or while skateboarding down a ramp, to name a few.
How do I know it was a pantry moth that I swallowed?
Once it’s swallowed, it’s gone. You may not ever know. There are over 11,000 species of moths in North America alone, one of which could be in your belly. But fear not. The pantry moth, harmless to your digestive tract, is the most common of these.
Too, if you accidentally swallowed a poisonous species of moth, it would be quite the feat, award-worthy for sure. Poisonous and stinging moths are brightly colors and often have spiny bodies. You’d have to shove quite a few of them in your mouth to fall ill.
However, if you experience vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea or other signs of gastrointestinal distress, it’s best to seek medical attention as you may have swallowed something harmful. Get off of that roller coaster, stop your bike, run to the nearest hospital or call your doctor’s office.
I didn’t swallow a panty moth, but I have them in my home
If these scoundrels are taking over your pantry (or your home), look no further than Dr. Killigan’s Premium Pantry Moth Traps. We understand that a moth infestation can be disgusting and frustrating and are here to help. You are not alone in this battle.
For more comprehensive insights and strategies on dealing with pantry moths, explore our top recommended articles:
- How long does it take to get rid of pantry moths?: Learn about the timeline and methods effective in moth eradication.
- Pantry moths vs. clothing moths: Understand the differences between these two pests and how to handle them.
- What do pantry moths eat?: Discover what attracts pantry moths to your home and how to safeguard your pantry items.
The final word on whether eating pantry moths can make you sick
No one wants to swallow a bug. No one wants bugs in their home either. If you are a part of the latter group, Dr. Killigan’s Premium Pantry Moth Traps are potent pheromone traps that will bring peace of mind back to your home. They are non-toxic, safe to use around children and pets when used as directed, and come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you purchase and then find that you are not completely satisfied, please contact us. We will not hesitate to make things right.
