Regulating Insect Contamination II

Hairs on Dermestid Beetle Larvae Can Attach to the Intestine

Not all insect contamination of food is the same. Although most insects are not harmful, some can cause illness or medical harm. For example, some dermestid beetle larvae have barbed hairs that serve as protection against predation. The hairs can dislodge during processing of infested grain. If eaten, the hairs can catch the lining of the intestine. Lodged hairs can irritate the bowels and cause digestive illness. It is important…

Source: Living With Insects Blog