By Bob Weaver
Those winged critters embedded
in a Quaker's Oatmeal-To-Go breakfast bar have been identified by the company, says Gary Buchanan, who had been enjoying the products on his way to work as Calhoun's 911 Director.
See Initial Photos Local Man Finds Critters on Quaker's Breakfast Bar
The company, when initially called about the tainted product, told Buchanan they had never received complaints about such problems, the representative appeared to be reading from a script.
Photos taken by the Hur Herald, which appeared on regional TV outlets, indicated a cocoon-like attachment on the end of the breakfast bar, with a plentiful sprinkling of tiny eggs on the sugary crust.
Buchanan returned the bar to the company for examination.
They have now issued a report from their forensics department, saying the critters are the most common pest found on food in the home and processed products.
The Indian Meal Moth, generally about 3/8 inch long in its' developed stage, lays eggs on dried food products and pet food, and can become the scourge of grain storage operators or home pantries.
People may ask what happens if they ingest such critters?
An Internet search says "Since these insects do not contact disease containing surfaces do not transmit disease, there is no harm done to people or their pets if affected food is ingested."
Some sites suggest human beings frequently eat the bugs in processed foods, with no harm done.
Hopefully, Mr. Buchanan feels better now.
Quaker Oats was sympathetic to his plight, and sent him three $4 coupons good toward the purchase of any company product.
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