Heat Treatment for Insect Control
Item
Title
Heat Treatment for Insect Control
Description
Heat treatment for insect control is not a new concept. The technique has been used
successfully since at least 1914 in US flour mills. However, for a long time it has been
regarded as a practice restricted to a few specialist operators, supplying largely the
organic and environmental markets. Other methods of controlling insect infestations
include low temperatures, fumigation, irradiation and microwave treatment, all of
which have advantages and drawbacks. Heat treatment is now increasing in popularity as a safe, fast and effective method of insect control, replacing the fumigant gas
methyl bromide, which until 2005 was the primary choice of treatment.
successfully since at least 1914 in US flour mills. However, for a long time it has been
regarded as a practice restricted to a few specialist operators, supplying largely the
organic and environmental markets. Other methods of controlling insect infestations
include low temperatures, fumigation, irradiation and microwave treatment, all of
which have advantages and drawbacks. Heat treatment is now increasing in popularity as a safe, fast and effective method of insect control, replacing the fumigant gas
methyl bromide, which until 2005 was the primary choice of treatment.