Common Food Pests

A food pest can be any animal or insect which is visible and can be a hazard to food.

Pests are the direct cause of most food businesses being closed by the statutory authorities, are a cause of food poisoning and major factor in the thousands of food complaints received by the Environmental Health Departments every year.

Few things upset customers more than stories of hairs or insects found in food and processors may receive unwanted publicity if pest contaminants are found in their product. This will directly affect profits and ultimately cost jobs. Pests are also responsible for the spoilage of significant quantities of food and for enormous damage to buildings. Pest control, therefore, makes good economic sense to all companies and this is apart from the legal responsibilities placed on all food businesses to control pests.

Even in the home pest control is essential - pests can be a nuisance, be a risk to health and cause damage.

By following some simple rules and with an understanding of the life style of the common pests all people dealing with food can ensure their products are pest free.

No Food - No Water - No Shelter

Begin your pest control program by thoroughly cleaning your premises. Cleaning removes hiding spaces and helps starve insect and rodent populations. Watch out for signs of infestation, or openings which may allow rodents and insects to enter. Staff should be trained to identify and report the signs of rat, mice or insect infestation.

Pest control companies can eradicate vermin quickly if accurate information about the problem is available. Once the problem is under control regular inspections of the premises will ensure that pests are not allowed to return. Trees or grass planted close to the walls of the building can be ideal hiding places.