Pest Concerns in Food Service

Not surprisingly, restaurants – from fast food joints to five-star establishments – are natural magnets for pests. They provide easy access to an abundance of food sources in a temperature-controlled environment, which is ideal for pests to set up shop.

While a number of species can be problematic in food service settings, rodents, cockroaches, flies and stored product pests tend to be of the utmost concern for restaurant owners and operators. And, with good reason, as an infestation can result in food contamination, fines from health departments, damage to the restaurant’s reputation, and temporary or permanent closure, in the most severe cases.

Due to changing food safety regulations, it’s essential for restaurateurs to work directly with a licensed pest control professional, who can conduct a thorough inspection and identify conditions that are conducive to pest activity. Restaurant owners and operators should also make it a point to education staff about proper sanitation practices and pest prevention. In many cases, a pest control company can help to educate employees. These efforts will go a long way in protecting the establishment from health code violations and keeping its reputation intact.