An instant noodle manufacturer experienced a Stored Product Insect (SPI) infestation in two production mixers. The main pests identified were darkling beetles, red flour beetles, and cigarette beetles. The infestation posed a risk to food safety, product quality, and production efficiency.
Insect Control Solution
During the site inspection, our technical team found that the gap between Mixer 1 and Mixer 2, located on the mezzanine floor, was difficult to access during routine cleaning. As a result, flour residues had accumulated in the narrow space, creating an ideal harbourage for Stored Product Insects (SPI). Cigarette beetles were also found around the exterior of the mixers, with the infestation suspected to have originated from the ducting system.
After evaluating the situation, we recommended replacing the existing water-based misting system with Mirakn Treatment. Mirakn is a CO₂-based flushing treatment that disperses ultrafine particles to reach hidden harbourage areas, providing effective control of both crawling and flying insects. Before treatment, barrier tape was installed around the treatment area to prevent staff from entering or disturbing the work zone, while accessible flour residues were removed to improve the treatment’s effectiveness. Since insect eggs hidden within the flour could not be flushed out, thorough cleaning was essential to minimise the risk of re-infestation.
A total of 2.5 kg of Mirakn was applied during the treatment. Live darkling beetles, red flour beetles, and larvae were visibly flushed out from the hidden spaces inside the mixers, demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment. The process required careful planning, with half a day allocated for treatment followed by half a day of quarantine before production could safely resume.
Following the treatment, insect activity was significantly reduced, resulting in a cleaner production environment. The customer was also advised to strengthen cleaning procedures, especially in hard-to-reach areas, and continue regular Integrated Pest Management (IPM) monitoring to help prevent future Stored Product Insect (SPI) infestations and maintain food safety standards.
