Tips to Keep Rice Fresh and Free from Weevils
Add this simple ingredient to your rice container to prevent weevil infestations.

Rice is a kitchen staple in every Vietnamese household. Most families buy several kilograms—or even dozens—to store at home. However, over time, stored rice tends to lose its quality and may become infested with weevils. So, how can you prevent this problem?

To keep rice fresh, flavorful, and nutritious for a long time without attracting weevils, try the following simple yet effective tips:

1. Store rice in a cool, dry place

Moist environments are perfect breeding grounds for weevils and mold. Always store rice in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep the rice container elevated, away from the ground, and avoid direct sunlight exposure to preserve its quality.

2. Choose the right storage container

Use an airtight container to protect rice from humidity and pests. Depending on your needs, select a suitable size. You can also use specialized food storage boxes designed with rubber-sealed lids to prevent moisture from seeping in.

Alternatively, you can repurpose clean, dry water bottles with tight caps for smaller quantities of rice. Just make sure the bottles are completely dry before filling them to avoid mold or weevil growth.

3. Store rice in the refrigerator

If you don’t have a large amount of rice, keeping it in the refrigerator is an excellent option. The low temperature helps kill and prevent weevils. Simply place the rice in a sealed bag or container and store it in the fridge’s cool compartment.

4. Use garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a natural antibiotic that prevents mold and repels insects. Place a few garlic cloves in your rice container and store it in a cool, dry place. The natural scent of garlic effectively keeps weevils away.

5. Use white liquor

High-proof liquor (over 41%) can be used to repel weevils. Place a small, open bottle of liquor inside the rice container with its mouth slightly above the rice surface, then close the container lid. The evaporating alcohol will drive away insects and prevent infestation.

6. Use black pepper

The strong aroma of black pepper naturally repels weevils and other pests. Put a handful of peppercorns in a small cloth bag and place it in the rice container. Replace the bag once the pepper loses its scent to maintain effectiveness.

How to handle rice that already has weevils

If you find weevils in your rice, gently sift it to remove them. Then, spread the rice in a well-ventilated area to let any remaining weevils crawl out. Once they’re gone, transfer the rice to an airtight container. You can also refrigerate the rice to kill off any remaining insects.

Applying the above methods not only helps eliminate weevils but also ensures that your rice stays fragrant, clean, and safe to eat for months.