Controlling food pests
Pest control in food businesses is important because food pests carry disease, destroy food and damage property.
Why is pest control important?
Pest control is important because pests can carry food poisoning bacteria that can contaminate foods and cause illness or food spoilage.
These food poisoning bacteria can be passed to the food by contact with their hair, faeces and urine. Pests can also cause damage to property, waste food, contaminate water storage tanks and cause considerable damage to a food businesses reputation.
What are the signs?
A food pest is any creature that lives on or in human food. They can cause infestations on premises that are poorly maintained. Signs of rodent infestation include gnaw marks, droppings and shredded materials in dark, secluded areas. Signs of insect infestation include larvae, moulted skins and dead insect bodies.
Steps to control pests?
Here are steps to keep pests from getting into your food business:
- Keep the business clean
- Cover food at all times
- Store food off the ground and in pest-proof containers
- Store and clean refuse bins properly and keep well-fitted lids on bins
- Check incoming goods for signs of pest activity/food pests
- Check premises regularly for signs of infestation
- Rotate stock
- Keep doors, windows and screens closed
Train your staff for free about pest control with our FREE safefood for business training Module 7.
