[Aim]  To determine the attractiveness of the volatile compounds of different spices to Tenebrio molitor larvae, thereby providing a scientific basis for the rearing or control of this pest. [Methods]  Olfactory responses of larvae to 12 spices were tested in a Y-tube olfactometer. Crude extract of Illicium verum (star anise) was analyzed by GC-MS, and three blends based on its primary components were tested. The dose-response curves of trans-Anethole were quantified. [Results]  Among the 12 spice extracts tested, only star anise extract was significantly attractive; 30 larvae preferred it to the control, 3 preferred the control and 7 had no obvious preference (P = 0.005 3). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified trans-Anethole (65.46%), linalool (7.00%), (E)-β-caryophyllene (4.58%), and (Z,E)-α-farnesene (4.48%), as the major components of the star anise extract. Of the three volatile blends tested, only trans-Anethole was as attractive to larvae as natural star anise extract. Dose-response assays revealed that within a range of doses from 0 to 5 mL, trans-Anethole was attractive to larvae at low doses and repellent at high doses. [Conclusion]  Low-dose trans-Anethole may be used as a feed additive to improve the olfactory characteristics of diets for T. molitor larvae.