Beetles were determined to be the cause of concern in a recent shipment of certain goods sent to the Guam for military installations. Pacific Health Command investigated affected shipments of dry pet food and bags of pasta in Guam.

Officials say some of these foods have been spoiled due to an unforeseen presence of pests.

The items were pulled immediately from the commissary shelves. Public Health Command-Pacific entomologists presented their findings to Naval Base Guam, Andersen Air Force Base, and DECA leadership.

Officials identified three different species of beetles in pet food and other products like dry-boxed pasta. One beetle species has the potential to secrete a chemical that can be harmful to your health, but officials say that’s only if you ingest large quantities of the product.

The risk of long-term effects is very low.

Base commissary shoppers are cautioned that if bought any product containing these insects, you are asked to freeze the product in an airtight bag for five days to inhibit the life cycle and prevent further contamination before returning it to the commissary or NEX for a full refund or disposal.

The military added, “Our top priority is the health and safety of our warfighters, their families, and beneficiaries.”