These are the larval webs of a pantry moth (also known as a dried fruit moth or glue moth), not mold or cobwebs. Although the expiration date hasn’t passed, the pests could have entered the jar through a loose lid or even during packaging.

Immediate action in the pantry

Disposal and cleaning: Seal the infested spice in a plastic bag and immediately take it to an outdoor trash can. Disinfect the spice jar with hot, soapy water.

Thorough inspection: Check all the contents of your pantry, especially flour, grains, rice, oats, nuts, chocolate, and teas. Small clumps, caterpillars, or fine threads indicate an infestation.

Vinegar cleaning: Vacuum the corners of the shelves and the holes in the shelf supports (pupae like to hide there). Then wipe the entire cupboard with hot vinegar water.

How to prevent re-infestation:

Airtight storage: Replace cardboard boxes and thin bags with glass or hard plastic containers with rubber seals (simple plastic bags are easily chewed by larvae).

Pheromone trap: Place moth glue in the pantry. This attracts flying moths and traps them, preventing them from reproducing.

Natural repellents: Place bay leaves or lavender on shelves and next to dry goods. Their scent repels moths