Resistance of packaging against infestation by Sitophilus zeamais

The results of infestation by maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), in different packaging filled with pasta are presented in this research. Three different types of packaging were used, that is, two paper tubes (one novel, laminated with bio-based polyethylene and one without lamination) and commercial polypropylene, pillow pouch packaging. Material properties such as grammage, thickness, surface analysis, moisture and water resistance, tensile and compressive strength were analysed. Improved compressive strength, moisture and water resistance were detected at the bio-polyethylene laminated tube packaging (approx. 30%), compared to the non-laminated sample. The obtained results demonstrated that adult maize weevils revealed significant preferences to enter the pasta packages through the already existing holes which were in the polypropylene packaging, while no infestation was observed inside the packages at the paper tube packaging. The study revealed that the shape and construction, for example, tube packaging with an innovative bio-polyethylene film, are very effective regarding insect infestation and mechanical overloads.