Armed Forces Pest Management Board
Technical Guide No. 38
Protecting Meal, Ready-to-Eat Rations (MREs)
and Other Subsistence During Storage
May 2005
Published
and Distributed by
Forest Glen Section
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Office of the Deputy
Under Secretary of Defense
for Environmental Security
Table of Contents
PART I.
Instituting an Integrated
Pest Management Program
..4
Inspection/Survey/Monitoring
Techniques
.5
Structural Design/Pest
Exclusion
7
Non-chemical Control
Methods
........................
..11
PART II. SHIPBOARD PROGRAMS
Landing Force Operational Reserve Materiel (LFORM) .14
U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Army
Pre-positioned Stocks
...15
APPENDICES
A. Entomological Laboratory Identification
Services
..23
B. US Army Veterinary Command Points of Contact .28
Acknowledgments
The AFPMB Stored Products Committee completed the original version of Technical Guide No. 38 (TG 38) as a revision of information that was included in earlier issuances of OPNAVINST 6250.4, Pest Management Program. The following individuals contributed to this current revision: LCDR Eric Hoffman, Chair Quarantine/Stored Commodities Protection Committee, Capt Mary Ann Haberman, Vice Chair Quarantine/Stored Products Protection Committee, COL Timothy Jones, COL Scott Severin, LTC Bradford Hildabrand, LTC Richard Meaney, LTC William Sames, LCDR Michael Zyzak, MAJ Kelley Evans, MAJ Venee Morthole, Dr. Herb Bolton, Ms. Muriel Bundy, Mr. Michael Torstrick, and Mr. Gary Walker. The AFPMB greatly appreciates their technical input and editorial comments for this TG.
Disclaimer
Trade names are used in this TG to provide specific information and do not imply endorsement of the products named or criticism of similar ones not mentioned. Mention of trade names does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the products by the AFPMB, the Military Services, or the Department of Defense (DoD).
Foreword
This Technical Guide (TG) implements guidance for the protection of Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) Combat Rations owned or under the custody of military installations and forces consistent with the references listed at the end of this document.
Historically there have been few incidents of MRE
infestation/damage by insects or rodents. However, the 10 mil polyethylene bags
used to package MRE rations are susceptible to insect and rodent infestation
and damage. Until different packaging is used for the rations, pest prevention
measures must be taken ashore and afloat to protect them. Currently, MRE
rations are stored in dry storage (ambient temperature) warehouses;
refrigerated/cold storage facilities, both above and below ground; and aboard
ships including the Maritime War Reserves (MWR). Furthermore, the rations are
included in the
PART 1. INSTALLATION PROGRAMS
I. Instituting an Integrated Pest
Management Program.
A. Develop and implement MRE rations protection program through integrated pest management (IPM), which involves a combination of chemical and non-chemical prevention and control strategies. Portions of the IPM program may not be applicable to cold storage facilities. The basic IPM program for MREs includes:
1. Initial inspection of goods and premises, identification of problem areas, and identification of pests present.
2. Application of pest management techniques:
a. Structural design and pest exclusion.
b. Sanitation and housekeeping.
c.. Stock handling practices.
d. Non-chemical control and exclusion methods.
e. Chemical control methods.
3.
Frequent inspection of goods and storage areas and pest monitoring to
continually evaluate the program and correct problem areas is essential.
The success of any IPM program is dependent upon communication and cooperation
between warehouse management, medical, veterinary and entomological personnel,
and military or civilian pest control operators. The responsibilities for each
element of the program overlap, thus, the breakdown of any element can
jeopardize the program.
II. Initial Inspection
A. Joint inspection between the pest
management consultant (PMC), warehouse management and Veterinary Services
personnel will be performed to identify problem areas and to review current
practices. The PMC will discuss techniques for effective pest management and
pinpoint deficient areas per Section I of DLAR 4155.37 (DLAR 4155.37; AR
702-18; NAVSUPINST 4410.56; AFR 69-10; MCO 4450.13) (Reference (f)).
Immediately following the inspection, the PMC and warehouse management
personnel will discuss problem areas and develop a working plan and goals to
correct deficiencies.
III.
Inspection/Survey/Monitoring Techniques
A. Conduct thorough veterinary/entomological/pest control commodity inspections for possible infestations. Emphasize receipt inspections of the product and method of conveyance to detect infested products before acceptance.
B. Conduct, at a minimum, monthly
veterinary/preventive medicine/pest management inspections of sanitary
conditions both inside and outside warehouses. If no critical deficiencies are
reported, documented sanitary inspections are required quarterly (DSCP Handbook
4155.2). Sanitary problems shall be reported to the activity commander and
warehouse/facility management when observed. Reported problems should be
monitored until corrected. Actively
involve facility employees in the pest management program to observe conditions
during daily activities which may contribute to a pest infestation.
C. Effective inspection techniques are critical for the efficient operation of an IPM program. Conducting a proper inspection requires several items, such as a flashlight, pocket knife for opening boxes, clipboard, paper, pen, vials and tape for resealing boxes. In addition, the inspector may want to carry chalk for marking infested pallets, a magnifying hand lens to aid in initial insect identification, and a mirror on an extendable handle for inspecting difficult to reach locations. Also, a portable black light is useful in determining rodent contamination, as rodent urine fluoresces under ultraviolet light (Note: many substances will fluoresce when exposed to a black light. Experience is necessary to distinguish rodent urine from other materials).
D. During receipt inspections, the inspector should note the condition of boxes and pallets and look for actual infestations in the food product itself. Over-aged items and products in severely deteriorated or damaged containers should be viewed with suspicion. Where possible, such items shall be returned to the shipper. Do not place infested products in the food warehouse. The conveyance vehicle/vessel should also be inspected for evidence of insect or rodent infestation; such evidence may be grounds for rejection of the products. Shipments of MREs showing evidence of infestation shall be reported to DSCP immediately for pest management guidance.
E. During the initial preprogram inspection, as well as during follow-up inspections, the inspector should note general sanitation levels, structural discrepancies, and signs of rodent or insect infestations. Inspection results shall be communicated to the activity commander and warehouse management, as well as any other involved agency such as Public Works or Maintenance. Effective communication is necessary so that deficiencies may be corrected promptly to ensure an effective program.
F. Insect and other arthropod (mite) identifications must be supported by confirmation from a pest management consultant, the supporting medical laboratory, the Navy Environmental Health Center, a Navy Disease Vector Ecology and Control Center, Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit; an Air Force MAJCOM Pest Management Consultant or the regional or main office of the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine (CHPPM).
G. The following guidelines are helpful to
inspectors in identifying insect and rodent infestations:
1. Rodents
a. Look for droppings, urine stains, rub marks, gnawing, and shredded nesting materials on, in, and under palletized goods. Rodents may infest the interior of palletized goods, especially if held for long periods in the warehouse before issue.
b. Do not confine inspections to pallets of edible foods; rodents will nest with equal facility in pallets of canned goods or paper products.
c. In heavy infestations, the odor of rodents provides a valuable clue to their location.
2. Insects
a. Note the number and type of dead insects on floors, ledges, and window sills, as well as any live insects crawling on or flying around commodities.
b. If
c. Pheromone traps are recommended and may be used at the discretion of the responsible pest management consultant. Technical Guide No. 27, Stored Product Pest Monitoring Methods, (Reference (h)), provides guidance on their use.
d. Check infestible food products by removing a layer or two of packages off the top of a pallet and examine for insects on package surfaces or in cracks and folds between packages. Insects infesting food products will usually be found on the underside of plastic bags, in and along folds and seams of bagged commodities, in the bottom of cartons and sacks, or underneath carton or box flaps. The existence of "frass" or silk in or on a product or chewed entry or exit holes are clues to an infestation, even if actual insects are not immediately seen.
e. Check rodent bait stations
periodically. Rodenticides are combined
with a grain base and often become infested by stored product insects.
IV. Structural Design/Pest Exclusion.
A. Proper structural design and other
techniques can prevent or minimize arthropod, rodent and bird entry into
warehouses and storerooms, thereby, minimizing additional resources needed to
remove them.
1.
Outside Grounds.
a. Eliminate heavy vegetation and debris near the storage facility, particularly near doors and windows. These areas serve as harborage for insects and rodents increasing the risk of facility access by these pests.
b. Empty refuse receptacles and pick up trash daily. Ensure receptacles have lids and are covered when not in use. Ensure areas around dumpsters are maintained debris free. Additionally, refuse receptacles should be washed frequently to prevent the collection of debris.
c. Locate and organize surplus pallets well away from the warehouse building, as they will provide harborage for rodents and insects.
d. Install yellow or sodium vapor exterior lighting to reduce insect attraction. Direct light, when possible, away from the facility.
2. Buildings.
a. Identify and repair holes/cracks in or under walls. Seal all cracks around door jams or at the wall-ground junction with concrete or other suitable material.
b. Maintain tight closure of doors - the gap along bottom and sides should not exceed Ό inch. Keep doors closed when not in use. If railroad tracks run into the warehouse, a block or plate should be attached to the door to fill the gap next to the track itself.
c. Seal grooves and channels where utility lines enter the building.
d. Cover operable windows and air ducts with 16-mesh screening. Ensure screening is in good repair without holes or tears.
e. Cover exhaust fans with operable louvers and/or16-mesh screening.
f. Appropriately screen or cover floor drains and heating/cooling vents with Ό inch mesh to prevent rodent access. Seal nonfunctioning floor drains. Flush or clean drains on a regular basis.
g. Properly seal expansion joints and other joints or cracks to eliminate pest entry or harborage.
h. Proper use of air curtains at entry points.
3. Warehouse Interior.
a. If there is an area open below the loading dock, keep it open, accessible and clean. Keep the dock itself free of debris, excess pallets, and packing materials, which can provide pest harborage.
b. To aid surveillance and cleaning efforts, maintain a minimum of 46 cm (18") perimeter clearance between walls and shelves or pallets.
c. Store packing material in repack areas off the floor; store tools and parts in mechanical and recharging areas similarly.
d. Ensure damaged goods are isolated from all other consumables and returned or properly disposed in a timely manner.
e. Provide lockers for employee storage of personal items and lunches. An area must be designated for eating and drinking, separate from storage operations.
V. Sanitation/Housekeeping.
A. Proper sanitation and housekeeping efforts will substantially reduce pest food sources and harborage, as well as facilitate effective chemical and non-chemical control measures. Good sanitation practices include:
1. Promptly cleaning spilled stored commodities. Avoid, when possible, storing commodities on wooden shelving or wooden pallets. Wood is absorbent and extremely difficult to clean thoroughly. Avoid storing commodities directly on the floor. All storage racks/shelving must be periodically inspected and cleaned.
2. Repair or remove and dispose of broken food containers and packages, especially in salvage and recoupment areas. Thoroughly cleaning metal or plastic refuse containers located in the recoupment area as frequently as necessary with hot water or steam. Use disposable liners in refuse containers to minimize cleaning frequency.
3. Use snug-fitting covers or lids for refuse containers. Additionally, when emptying refuse containers daily, ensure the containers are thoroughly clean.
4. Deep cleaning is absolutely necessary to remove food resources which may be exploited by pests. Sweep floors regularly, paying special attention to debris removal, which accumulates around posts, shelf legs, and pillars. Use an industrial vacuum sweeper to thoroughly clean warehouses and storerooms containing subsistence assets. Empty stock locations should be swept prior to new stock placement. This applies for trailers, containers, government-owned vans and rail cars to be loaded with MREs.
5. If rodent droppings are found, notify pest control immediately. Prior to removal, thoroughly review the area (including commodities, packaging, pallets, and floors) for contamination by urine or other filth and assist in identifying the source of the infestation. Note: Special precautions may be necessary in certain regions. Refer to MILSTD 904B (Reference (i).
6. Maintain pallets in good repair, keeping clean and free of debris.
7. Ensure all rail cars and truck vans are clean and without holes prior to loading and upon receipt.
8. Restrict food consumption and smoking to designated areas. Remove empty food tins, open containers of food scraps, and in other out-of-the-way places. These items are powerful pest attractants.
9. Keep all rest rooms and "break" or lunch areas clean.
A. Certain stock handling practices have been effective at reducing the potential food supply and harborage for pests:
1. Inspect incoming products to ensure they are pest free upon receipt. Dispose of any infested products. See Section I of DLAR 4155.37 (Reference (f)).
2. Store MRE rations separate from commissary and fleet/troop issue food items to the maximum extent feasible, except when stored under refrigeration.
3. Avoid combining different commodities on the same pallet.
4. Consolidate items on pallets as compactly as possible to eliminate rodent hiding places.
5. Rotate stock properly. Proper stock rotation is critical; the older a product, the more likely it is to be infested. Base rotation on the date of pack of the item, rather than the date the item was received in the warehouse or storeroom, unless food inspection personnel indicate otherwise. Management must be aware of the turnover time on various items in order to reduce the likelihood of overstocking, and consequent over-aging of products.
6. In locations where MRE rations are collocated with commissary or troop issue items, conduct a thorough inspection of the most highly infestible commodities (e.g. dry pet food) to determine whether or not an infestation exists. Conduct the same inspection on all other infestible commodities shortly thereafter. The following items are at risk for infestation:
|
Dry pet food |
Flour Mixes* |
|
Bakery
Mixes* |
Nuts |
|
Dry fruit |
Pasta |
|
Cookies |
Grits |
|
Cereals |
Dry beans |
|
Rice |
Cornmeal |
|
Candy |
Spices |
*(Note: Canned flour and
bakery mixes are subject to packaging infestation because of product
dust/residue on the cans and in the cases.)
7. Food items, other than MREs, found to be infested with insects should be isolated as quickly as possible and fumigated or discarded (See AFPMB TIM-11, (Reference (g)), and fumigant manufacturers labeling). If this cannot be done within 24 hours, cover the infested commodity with plastic and seal the plastic to the floor with tape. It will serve as a temporary means of minimizing contamination of other products. If all of the above are impossible, place the infested commodity in refrigerated storage. The fumigation of MRE rations is not recommended and will only be done if no other options area available, and only after consultation with a Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) entomologist (Directorate of Subsistence, Operational Rations, Commercial 215-737-5648/7533, DSN 444-5648/7533 or main desk, commercial 215-737-2952, DSN 444-2952). Reworking the MRE cases, placing the rations under refrigeration or freezing are preferred options. If rations are frozen, they must be thawed prior to handling to avoid damage to the packaging and compromising food safety.
8. Encourage careful forklift
operations. Most spillage and commodity damage is caused by carelessness.
Special care must be taken with soft packaged items, such as flour, sugar, and
rice.
VII.
A. These methods are designed to exclude pests from storage environments and prevent their establishment:
1. Properly installed plastic or wire screening attached or suspended beneath warehouse overhangs can be an effective means of excluding birds from access to roosting or nesting sites.
2. Screening (16-mesh) in good repair properly installed over windows on outside walls is an effective way to prevent bird entry.
3. Large doorways leading to outside accesses should be tight-fitting and have no gaps larger than Ό inch on any edge when the door is closed. If these doorways are left open for extended periods, they should be fitted with full length plastic strips or properly installed air curtains (air current blowing down and out of the facility) to discourage and prevent pest entry.
4. Electronic, magnetic, and
sonic devices are neither effective nor authorized for rodent or bird control
(Reference (j)).
VII. Non-chemical Control Methods
A. These methods are designed to control pest infestations by catching, killing, or excluding the pest without the use of pesticides. Warehouse design must be considered from the standpoint of control and exclusion.
1. Repeating traps and snap traps are used for rodent control around the inside perimeter of the warehouse. They are set at regular intervals (distance will vary depending on the potential for rodent activity and the type of rodent normally encountered), or within stacks in high susceptibility areas such as those used for pet food, rice, and flour storage. Traps should be checked at least weekly, or daily if activity is observed. It is possible to have either a warehouse worker or food inspector check traps during the interval between routine pest control visits. They should notify pest control of any activity found.
2. Glue boards may be used for rodent control and should be placed in the same manner as traps on the natural rodent runs. They can also be used for monitoring for some insects. Note: Glue boards are often ineffective when used in very hot or dusty environments.
3. Eliminate unnecessary water sources readily available to rodents, including leaking pipes and excessive condensation. This will also improve the effectiveness of liquid rodenticides.
4. Repellent glues may be used to keep birds off roosting points, if they cannot be entirely excluded. In some situations, slip sheets (cardboard sheets used between the pallet base and load) or plastic may be placed on top of pallets to protect products from contamination.
5. Insect pheromone traps,
A. Chemical pesticides are used to prevent or control insect, rodent, and
bird infestations. Least hazardous yet effective pesticides are used as a last resort
in accordance with Integrated Pest Management.
1. Ensure that all pesticide applicators are trained, certified, or appropriately licensed to apply pesticides.
2. When necessary, use ULV fogging machines with an approved insecticide as a warehouse space treatment during non-duty hours. ULV can control flying and crawling stages of many insects, but will not affect eggs or insects inside food containers. It is not a substitute for fumigation. Specific recommendations shall be obtained from the responsible pest management consultant and shall be based upon surveillance results.
3. Apply crack and crevice residual pesticides, insect growth regulators (IGR) or baits (approved for food processing establishments) per label instructions in dry storage warehouses or similar facilities. The frequency of application should be adjusted, reduced or increased, based on surveillance results; however, it shall not exceed label recommendations.
4. Dry rodenticide bait may be used in storage environments in tamper-resistant and secured bait stations. Rodent bait stations should be placed along the outside warehouse perimeter, as well as at points of evident need based on surveys and a map made recording location (Note: Rodents feeding on bait will die, possibly in inaccessible areas resulting in odor and filth flies). Mechanical traps (windup, snap and bait stations with snap traps) may be used along interior walls (e.g. fire walls) as an alternative to bait stations. Place rodent control devices only in locations (map locations to prevent misplacing) that are accessible for inspection and servicing, and are protected from operations which may cause damage. Stations should be checked at least monthly for rodent activity. Old bait material must be completely replaced with new at regular intervals, since many insect pests can feed on the bait without ill effect. Bait stations should be used outside all storage facilities. For products stored in wet caves, bait stations should also be placed at intervals of 50 feet (15 meters) or closer. Bait stations placed outside must be tamperproof and secured. Baits must be protected from mechanical damage and be readily accessible to the rodent population. If rodent activity is noted indoors, both liquid bait stations and mechanical traps should be used to supplement dry rodenticide baits and the frequency of monitoring increased.
5. Rodent bait stations can be used outside the storage facility, and are especially effective for rapid reduction of high rodent populations.
6. Routine fumigation of MRE rations is prohibited. MRE fumigation will be performed only as noted in paragraph 5G.
7. To eliminate active infestations and prevent the spread of insects to MREs or other commodities, isolate and return or destroy infested product, deep clean storage areas and apply residual pesticides and/or IGRs if required. If necessary, fumigate any non-MRE product in which there is evidence (direct or indirect) of insect infestation. Fumigation should be accomplished in place, if possible, and as promptly as possible. When identified, report infestation to Senior Installation Medical Authority. If infestation affects mission or facilities, also notify Garrison Commander or Station Commanding Officer.
PART 2. SHIPBOARD PROGRAMS
I. Introduction.
A. The Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is a combat ration packaged in a 10 mil polyethylene bag which is strong and lightweight, but can be penetrated by rodents and certain insects. Under the confined conditions found aboard ship, MREs may be at risk for infestation or damage by those pests. Because of the critical importance of the MRE for use during contingency operations, it is essential that ship commanders ensure these rations are protected through an effective shipboard pest management program.
B. Ships Carrying MREs.
1. MRE
rations are stocked aboard Navy ships when specifically authorized by a fleet
commander and the Navy Food Service System Office. For example, an LSD may
requisition MREs to feed the ships landing party during training or field
exercises. In that situation, the rations will be found in the food service
storerooms and will be the responsibility of the supply department.
Additionally, the
2. Navy replenishment and USNS vessels may carry MREs, some of which will be transported in refrigerated spaces. Certain types of amphibious assault ships have been designed to carry large quantities of MREs under a program called Landing Forces Operational Reserve Materials, or LFORM. The very nature of the program renders the MRE vulnerable to invasion by insects and rodents.
II Landing Force Operational Reserve Materiel (LFORM)
A. Concept of LFORM. LFORM are part of
B. Ship Types Carrying LFORM MREs. MRE
rations for a
C. Palletizing MREs in LFORM. MREs are palletized and banded on standard 40" x 48" wooden pallets. There are 48 cases/pallet.
D. Rotation of MREs in LFORM. MREs have a 3 year shelf life under normal conditions. Current policy is to rotate MREs every deployment. Rotation will return MREs to supply channels for reissuing and consumption.
III. U.S. Marin e
Corps and U.S.
A. Newly assembled MRE rations are used for
pre-positioned stocks. MREs are stored in containers aboard either contracted,
chartered or USNS vessels maintained by the Military Sealift Command. Once
placed aboard ship, the rations are not readily accessible and generally will
not be inspected until the stocks are rotated off the ships. Some ships have
containers equipped for remote monitoring of container conditions. The rations
are stored for 30 months (U.S.
A. Stacking. MREs shall be stacked no more than four (4) pallets high in a warehouse to prevent crushing the cases at the base of the stack. Continual vibration while underway will hasten the settling or crushing effects on the lower cases of MREs pallets. On those ships having overhead clearance allowing stacking of MREs, it is recommended that stacks be no more than three (two preferred) pallets high. While other LFORM gear may be placed under the MREs, no items shall be placed over the MRE rations. MREs shall not be stacked over or immediately adjacent to petroleum products (oils, greases, fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, explosives or ammunition).
B. Inspections.
C. Time and Temperature Guidelines. MREs stored in LFORM blocks can be expected to experience temperature ranges that allow them to last for at least one year. Studies by the U.S. Army, Natick Laboratory indicate the following time and temperature storage guidelines for MREs: seven years at 60oF, five years at 70oF, four years at 80oF, thirty months at 90oF, and five months at 110oF (See Reference (d)). Daily temperature logs should be kept on LFORM stowage areas where ordnance is held. Similarly, any spaces with MREs must also be monitored for temperature. The combat cargo officer should consider placing MREs in the coolest sections of the LFORM stowage spaces when designing the load plan.
V.
Pest Management Guidelines.
A. Initial Inspection and Treatment of
LFORM MRE Stowage Spaces. The combat cargo officer must coordinate the
initial inspection of storage space with the preventive medicine technician or
Medical Department representative (MDR) prior to loading LFORM MRE rations. A
meticulously thorough survey for any insect or rodent must be made at that
time. Even if no insects or rodents are found, flawless sanitation and
housekeeping practices will substantially reduce pests in food sources and
harborage, as well as facilitate chemical and non-chemical measures for any
pest that may be introduced later. A high degree of sanitation is essential in
all store rooms to prevent or limit infestations. Information concerning
shipboard pest management may be obtained from Reference (k).
1. Thoroughly deep clean (surface sanitation is not sufficient) the entire stowage space where MREs are to be placed. Any nearby spaces which hold or have recently held foodstuffs or animal products (boots, blankets, brushes, wool uniforms, etc.) must receive similar attention. Remove debris from the ship after each cleaning.
2. Once the storage area is cleaned, residual insecticide sprays may be applied; however, this treatment is not warranted unless pest activity was noted during clean up. Consider using insect growth regulators (IGRs) as a crack and crevice treatment to reduce the risk of pest population expansion. The preventive medicine authority certified to apply pesticides or station pest control personnel will apply approved compounds. Specific pesticide recommendation, rate, and type of application must be obtained from the respective area medical entomologist.
3. If subsistence supplies are procured at
overseas ports, ensure they receive a proper receipt inspection (pier-side
inspection) to prevent the introduction of stored product pests into ship
storage areas.
B. Inspection of LFORM MREs Prior to Loading. Paragraph 4200 of Reference (c) states that stores received from military installations require only a quantity inspection. It further states that quality inspections are made by the supply activity upon acceptance of the material from the original supplier and will not be duplicated aboard ship. However, quality inspections are encouraged before the stores are transferred to onboard storage areas. It is during this inspection that the Medical Department Representative should check closely for signs of insects and rodents. Receipt of stores from government installations other than military are to be inspected for both quantity and quality. Due to the absolutely critical importance of the LFORM MRE in future contingency operations, only stocks in good condition and free of defects should be accepted.
C. Loading of LFORM MREs. Loading can begin once the combat cargo officer has determined the quality and quantity of LFORM MREs, and that stowage spaces are properly prepared. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the rations during loading operations. Damaged cases with exposed foodstuffs must be removed from the pallet and repackaged. Prompt cleanup of spillage is essential. Supervisors must encourage caution and consciousness among forklift and elevator operations to avoid damage to these rations.
D. Routine Inspection Program for MREs
Stored Aboard Ship.
1. Inspection of Ships Company MREs. In those storerooms where MRE rations are co-located with ships company food stuffs, the Medical Department should conduct a thorough monthly inspection of several of the most highly infested commodities (flour, mixes, cornmeal, grits, pasta, cookies, cereals, spices, beans, nuts, and candy). Handle infestations detected as a result of those inspections per Reference (c).
2. LFORM MRE Inspection Program Requirements. Due to the absolutely critical nature of these rations, conduct intense surveillance of the LFORM MREs. Any insect life form found in these stowage spaces must initially be considered as a threat to the MRE. The combat cargo officer should coordinate with the medical officer to have designated Medical Department representatives conduct weekly inspections for stored product pests. The LFORM load plan must allow for reasonable access; otherwise, adequate inspections cannot be performed.
3. Surveillance Equipment. To conduct an adequate and thorough inspection, the inspector will need to carry several items, such as a flashlight, clipboard, paper, pen, alcohol vials for preserving insect specimens, magnifying hand lens to aid in initial pest identification, and optionally, a portable black light to identify rodent urine (Note: many substances will fluoresce when exposed to a black light. Experience is necessary to distinguish rodent urine from other materials).
4. The inspector should note the condition of pallets and cases, as well as look for actual infestations in the products stored adjacent to MREs. Damaged cases should be viewed with suspicion. Note: Open package inspection of MRE meals for insect infestation is not necessary nor is it recommended unless the pouch bag has been damaged or a special inspection has been requested.
5. Rodent Inspection.
a. The MRE is vulnerable to rodent attack, especially in the LFORM configuration. Mice, for example, may be brought aboard in plywood boxes containing other materials in LFORM (burlap bags, ordnance, barbed wire, etc.).
b. Inattention to detail on the part of the inspector looking for rodents could have serious consequences. The inspector should look for droppings, urine stains, rub marks, gnawing, and shredded nesting materials on, in, and under palletized goods. Rats and mice may also infest the interior of palletized goods.
c. The inspector should not
confine the search for rodents to the MRE rations. The pests will nest in
non-food pallets as well.
6. Insect Inspection.
a. The inspector should note number and type of dead insects on the deck, as well as any live insects on or around pallets and packages. Location and lot numbers of infested rations should be recorded.
b. Check MREs by removing cases from the top of the pallet and looking closely for insects on package surfaces or in cracks or folds between packages. Insects may be found on the underside of plastic bags, in the bottom of cases, or between the box and the sides of the MRE case. The existence of "frass" or silk in or on the product or chewed entry or exit holes are clues to an infestation, even if actual insects are not immediately seen. Breaking open pallets of all MREs stowed aboard ship is not recommended.
c. Positive insect
identification may be obtained from the nearest area medical entomologist or
PMC listed in Reference (h).
E. Procedures When LFORM MREs are Infested by
Insects.
1. Notify the combat cargo officer and medical officer.
2. Determine the extent of infestation and record lot numbers of MRE containers.
3. Remove all infested/damaged cases from the LFORM stowage space immediately, in order to minimize the possibility of infestation of "clean" supplies. Refrigerate cases, if possible, or dispose of them following current directives. When cases are damaged during loading, the cases shall be replaced with undamaged cases from stock.
4. Contact the nearest Navy medical entomologist or PMC by phone or message for guidance and to transmit information on the lot numbers, condition and quantity of infested MRE rations. See Reference (h) for location of the nearest area entomologist.
5. No fumigation procedure for MREs or other
food stores aboard ship is currently approved. MREs and other food stores found
to be infested can be covered with plastic and the plastic sealed to the floor
with tape to isolate the product. If possible the products should be placed in
refrigerated storage. This will serve as a temporary means of minimizing cross
contamination to other products. Local medical or veterinary representatives
must then determine through ration breakdown which components can be salvaged.
F. Procedures When MREs are Infested by
Rodents.
1. Light gangways well at night. Set traps and dispose of rodent carcasses following guidance provided in Reference (i). Check all traps during weekly inspections. When in port, rat guards must be utilized on all ship-to-shore lines on any vessel carrying MREs.
2. Rodent bait blocks made of grain bait are not recommended for use aboard ship for two reasons: (1) the grain bait may be infested with insects during the manufacturing process and serve as foci for infesting the ships stored products, and (2) any rodent poisoned by a bait block may die in an inaccessible area and cause unpleasant odors.
3. Glue boards may be useful for rodent control, especially in inaccessible areas. As with traps, locate the glue boards in natural rodent runs. Glue boards are not recommended for use in excessively hot and dusty areas.
4. Remove damaged cases from storage. Pallets with damaged cases should receive 100% inspection of the cases to ensure there are no rodent nests present. Adjacent pallets should also be examined. A blacklight is useful for identifying rodent contaminated cases. Remove MRE pouches from contaminated cases and destroy the boxes as appropriate. The pouches should be examined for damage or contamination.
5. MRE pouches that exhibit gnawing by rodents should be destroyed. Pouches with urine contamination can either be sanitized with a chlorine solution (Reference (i)) or destroyed as per Navy medical entomologist or local medical authority.
References
(a) COMNAVSURFPACINST 4080.1/FMFPAC ORDER 4080.2 (NOTAL)
(b) COMNAVSURFLANTINST 4080.1B/FMFLANT ORDER 4000.10B (NOTAL)
(c) NAVSUP PUB 485, Afloat Supply Procedures.
Revision 2,
(d) DPSC
Handbook 4155.2, Subsistence, Inspection of Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) Rations,
Appendix A.
(e) DLAI 4145.31, Integrated
Stored Products Pest Management, 9 May 1997.
(f) DLAR 4155.37/TB 702-18,
Appendix S, Materiel Quality Control Storage Standards, 24 Feb 93.
(g) AFPMB
Technical Guide No. 11, Hydrogen Phosphide Fumigation of Subsistence with
Aluminum Phosphide.
(h) AFPMB
Technical Guide No. 27, Stored Product Pest Monitoring Methods.
(i) MILSTD 904B,
Department of Defense Standard Practice: Guidelines for Detection, Evaluation,
and Prevention of Pest Infestation of Subsistence.
(j) DoD
Instruction 4150.7, DoD Pest Management Program, April 22, 1996.
(k) US Navy Shipboard
Pest Control Manual
ENTOMOLOGICAL LABORATORY
IDENTIFICATION SERVICES
AND
ADDITIONAL POINTS OF CONTACT
Specimens can be
sent to any of following laboratories for identification. It is recommended that the facilities be
contacted prior to shipment for any special instructions.
LABORATORIES SERVICING CONUS INSTALLATIONS
CHPPM-North
Chief, Entomological
Sciences Division
USACHPPM-North,
ATTN: MCHB-AN-ES
Fort Meade MD 20755-5225
DSN: 923-5281/6502, FAX
DSN: 923-7132
Comm: (301)
677-5281/6502, FAX Comm: (301) 677-7132
CHPPM-South
Chief, Entomological
Sciences Division
USACHPPM-South,
ATTN: MCHB-AS-ES
DSN: 572-2564/78,
FAX DSN: 572-2126
Comm: (404) 752-2564/78,
FAX Comm: (404) 752-2126
CHPPM-West
Chief, Entomological
Sciences Division
USACHPPM-West,
ATTN: MCHB-AW-ES
Box 339500 MS 115
Fort
DSN: 347-0073/0084,
FAX DSN: 347-0163
Comm: (253)
966-0073/0084, FAX Comm: (253) 966-0163
CHPPM-Main
USACHPPM-Entomological
Sciences Program
DSN: 584-3613, FAX
DSN: 584-2037
Comm: (410)
436-3613, FAX Comm: (410) 436-2037
Navy DVECC,
Navy Disease Vector Ecology and
Naval Air
Station/Bldg 937
DSN: 942-2424/25,
FAX DSN: 942-4324
Comm: (904)
542-2424, FAX Comm: (904) 542-4324
Navy EPMU-2
Navy Environmental
and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 2
ATTN: Medical Entomology Department
Naval Station
DSN: 564-7671, FAX
DSN: 564-1191
Comm: (757)
444-7671, FAX Comm: (757) 444-1191
Navy EPMU-5
Navy Environmental
and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 5
ATTN: Medical Entomology Department
Naval Station
3055 Albacore Alley, Box 368143
San Diego, CA 92136-5199
DSN: 526-7070/7077,
FAX DSN: 526-7071
Comm: (619)
556-7070/7077, FAX Comm: (619) 556-7071
Naval Facilities Engineering
Command, Southern Division
Applied Biologist
SOUTHNAVFACENGCOM
(Code16A)
DSN: 583-7020, FAX
DSN: 583-7024
Comm: (803)
820-7020, FAX Comm: (803) 820-7024
Naval Facilities
Engineering Command, Northern Division
Applied Biologist
NORTHNAVFACENFCOM
(Code 1831)
DSN: 443-5067, FAX
DSN: 443-0555
Comm: (610)
595-5067, FAX Comm: (610) 595-0555
Naval Facilities
Engineering Command, Southwest Division
Applied Biologist
DSN: 522-1234, Comm:
(619) 532-1234,
Medical Entomology
Function
IERA/RSRH
DSN: 240-6135, FAX
DSN: 240-6841
Comm: (210)
536-6135, FAX Comm: (210) 536-6841
LABORATORIES
SERVICING OCONUS INSTALLATIONS
NAMRU-3
Chief, Entomological Sciences Division
NAMRU-3
PSC 452,
FPO AE
09835-0007
Comm: 011-202-284-1381; FAX Comm:
011-20-284-1382
CHPPM
Chief, Entomology
Sciences Division
CMR 402,
DSN: 486-6675/, FAX
DSN 486-7198
Comm:
011-49-6371-86-6675, FAX Comm: (011)-49-6371-86-7198
Navy EPMU-6
Navy Environmental and
Preventive Medicine Unit No. 6
ATTN: Medical Entomology Department