If sound storage procedures for commodities, as addressed in the following chapter, are followed, insect and rodent problems will be minimal. The problems can be further controlled with a program of cleaning and inspecting. Due to the extreme toxicity of fumigants, the utmost caution must be taken during their handling and administration.
Fumigation is the use of a gas to kill insects and rodents.
The purpose of fumigation is to destroy all stages of insects present in the material to be treated. An atmosphere that is toxic to insects will also kill rodents or other forms of animal life. Fumigation, will not eliminate mold or bacteria. Because there is no residual kill, insects or rodents may recontaminate the commodity immediately after fumigation. In order to protect stored foods a great emphasis must be placed on cleaning when sprays and fogs are used to eliminate insects.