Tag: Pests

The botanical name for lettuce, *Lactuca sativa*, derives from the Latin word for milk, *lactus*, referencing the milky white sap that is a natural part of the plant. While this sap, known as lactucarium, is the most common reason for a white substance, other causes range from common plant diseases to pests, each with different implications for your dinner salad.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), dried fruits like dates are susceptible to insect infestation, particularly during storage. While it is a common concern among consumers, it's a misconception that all dates have bugs in them. Although insect damage is possible, proper harvesting, processing, and storage practices significantly minimize this risk.

It's a common pantry occurrence: tiny white larvae or 'worms' suddenly appear in stored nuts, often to the surprise of many. These larvae, typically from moths or weevils that lay their microscopic eggs on the nuts before or after packaging, can be safely dealt with once discovered. This guide will show you how to remove worms from nuts using simple, non-toxic techniques and prevent them from returning.