Bay leaves in the pantry
Extension entomologists say bay leaves don’t prevent pantry pests.
Evidence: University extension: no evidenceProfessional review not claimed
What the sources say
University of Minnesota Extension states there is no evidence that bay leaves or spearmint gum in a cupboard prevent or remove stored-food insect pests.
Evidence assessment: University extension: no evidence. This describes the scope of the guidance we checked, not proof that the remedy works for you.
Cautions
- Discard infested food and store dry goods in sealed containers.
No method is given for this entry. The guidance we checked discourages this use or shows it does not do what tradition claims.
Ingredients & category
Sources
- UMN Extension: Pantry pests — link and wording checked 30 September 2026
Source-checking is not clinical or veterinary review. Specific historical origin not established from the source reviewed.