EVALUATION OF FOOD PACKAGE RESISTANCE TO INSECT INVASION

Abstract:
The data presented here addresses a new approach to the package evaluations which differs in all aspects from previous techniques except for the use of destructive sampling. Our evaluations are for a maximum period of a life-cycle of the challenging pest. By keeping the effect for their life stages separate, corrective approaches can be affected to the packages. All challenges are conducted in areas of controlled relative humidity and temperature in glass aquaria large enough to hold the number of packages needed for one replicate. Evaluations have been conducted with challenges from the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner). The use of insect resistant packages merits continued investigation as the shipping package provides the only protection food and feed processors and manufacturers can be assured of when their product leaves their control and enter the distribution channels.