Have you ever encountered rice infested with insects? If you cook regularly, you must have experienced this frustrating situation. Although it does not cause any harm to the body, infested rice can be quite troublesome. Here are a few methods to prevent rice infestation.
Garlic as a natural insect repellent: Take a few fresh, intact garlic cloves and remove the outer skin (do not crush the cloves to remove the skin). Then, seal them in a breathable cloth bag and place the bags in the rice container.
Effectiveness: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that have unique antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal properties, making it one of the best methods to prevent rice infestation.
Sichuan peppercorn as a pest deterrent: Sichuan peppercorn is a natural antioxidant with a distinctive aroma that acts as an insect repellent.
Method: Place 20-30 peppercorns in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, and boil until the peppercorn fragrance is released. Soak the rice bag in the peppercorn water, remove and let it dry. Additionally, pack several bags of peppercorn powder in cheesecloth and place them at the top, middle, and bottom of the rice container. Seal the bags tightly and store the rice container in a cool and ventilated place to prevent rice infestation.
Dried kelp as a pest deterrent: Dried kelp has a strong moisture absorption ability and also acts as an insecticide and antifungal agent. Mix dried kelp with rice in a ratio of 100:1 (rice to kelp). After approximately 10 days, remove the kelp, let it dry completely, and then put it back in the rice. Repeat this process several times to prevent rice spoilage and infestation.
Lime as a pest deterrent: Lime is a natural "calcium oxide" that can absorb moisture and repel insects, making it effective in preventing rice infestation.
Method: Sprinkle some lime at the bottom of the rice container, cover it with plastic wrap, and then add the rice. Seal the container tightly to prevent rice infestation.
White wine as a pest deterrent: White wine contains volatile ethanol, which has insecticidal and antibacterial properties, making it effective in preventing rice infestation.
Method: Place a clean bottle of white wine in the rice container, with the mouth of the bottle higher than the rice level. Do not cover the bottle. Seal the container tightly to prevent infestation.
Turtle bone marrow to preserve rice: Remove the bone marrow from a turtle shell using a thin wire, wash it with clean warm water, and let it dry. Then, wrap it in a clean cloth and place it in the rice bag to prevent rice spoilage and infestation. If the dried turtle shell or crab shell is directly placed in the rice, it can also prevent insect infestation and ants.
Note: These methods are effective in preventing rice infestation, but it is still advisable to store rice in a clean and dry environment to maintain its quality.
