Reader Question: Are Ants Attracted To Ethanol-Blended Petrol? Here’s Our Answer

Ethanol-blended petrol has become one of the biggest talking points in India as the government continues to push for higher ethanol blending in fuel. While this move aims to reduce fuel imports and support agricultural growth, many consumers are still confused about its long-term effects and compatibility with their vehicles.

Recently, a new theory about ethanol-blended petrol has gone viral on social media. A circulating image and video claim that ants are attracted to ethanol fuel because it is derived from agricultural products. This has created panic among vehicle owners, with several questions and concerns now circulating across social media platforms.

Answering A Reader's Question

One of our readers, Hari Krish, also raised a similar question regarding whether E20 petrol attracts ants. Many consumers seem to have the same doubt, as many assume ethanol retains sugar-based properties since it is derived from agricultural sources.

In this article, let us clear these doubts and understand whether ethanol-blended petrol can actually attract ants and other insects, or if it is just another viral myth spreading on social media.

Are Ants Really Attracted To Ethanol-Blended Petrol? Here's The Truth

The simple answer is no. The theory claims that if a vehicle remains idle for a long period, insects may swarm into the fuel tank because of the ethanol content. However, this claim has no scientific backing and is not supported by any verified source.

As a regular rider and automobile journalist, I can also answer this based on my own experience. I currently own three ICE-powered two-wheelers, and one of them often remains unused for several weeks at a time. I have never noticed ants or insects gathering near the fuel tank or filler cap. From my personal experience, these viral claims appear largely baseless and exaggerated.

BPCL Adds More Proof

Even Bharat Petroleum, one of the leading oil corporations in the country, has stepped in and clarified this issue with a detailed explanation. According to BPCL, they have examined the claims circulating on social media regarding ants gathering around vehicle fuel filler caps and their alleged connection with E20 petrol.

Fuel-grade ethanol used for petrol blending is produced through fermentation and distillation processes that completely eliminate residual sugars from the final product. Further, fuel ethanol contains denaturants, which are naturally repellent to insects.

Upon blending, the characteristic hydrocarbon odour of petrol remains dominant over any inherent ethanol odour. In addition, ethanol-blended petrol produces lower fuel vapour formation compared to conventional petrol.

As a result, there is no identifiable attractant associated with E20 fuel that would cause ants or other insects to gather around vehicle fuel caps. Here, BPCL has clearly stated that there is no scientific basis linking E20 fuel to ant or insect attraction.

Tips For Efficient Use Of Ethanol-Blended Fuel

1. Fill fuel only when necessary based on your usage.
2. Avoid leaving the vehicle idle for weeks with a full tank, as ethanol can absorb moisture and may increase the risk of corrosion over time.
3. Service your vehicle regularly and change engine oil and fuel filters on time or even before the recommended interval.
4. Avoid aggressive riding, as ethanol-blended fuel may offer slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to regular petrol.

The final takeaway is simple - do not panic over viral social media claims. Ethanol-blended petrol is safe when used correctly, and myths like ant attraction have no proven scientific evidence.