Flies are one of the most commonly-encountered pests in and around commercial accounts and the threat of a fly infestation increases in the summer months when pest pressures rise.
Aside from being a nuisance these pests can spell trouble for food processing and food service clients. Flies are a significant public health threat because of the possible transmission of harmful bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella to food, food preparation areas, storage and cooking surfaces.
With warmer temperatures the decomposition rate of the food sources flies like to feast on increases. From fresh produce to garbage, compost and animal feces, the quicker it spoils and breaks down, the more flies love it.
Food processing and food service clients looking to eliminate fly infestations need to place their efforts in two key areas:
1.) Employing good sanitation practices
2.) Identifying the source of the infestation and breeding locations
The Sprague Fly Management Checklist
Proper Identification – Gain the upper hand by correctly identifying the fly species infesting your facility. Correct identification allows you to determine the cause of the infestation and select a control option. An incorrect identification can lead you on a wild goose chase, wasting valuable time and resources.
Eliminate the Source – What is attracting the flies to your facility in the first place? Is it a sanitation issue, or is there structural failure (i.e. torn screens, negative air flow, faulty air doors, etc.)? Remove the source of interest and you will likely remove the flies.
Sanitation is King – Good sanitation practices in and around your facility is critical to keeping flies from gaining a foothold. When you consider a single garbage can that is not emptied can be a breeding ground for up to 30,000 flies, you’ll think twice about waiting to take out the trash. Use tight-fitting closures for garbage and recycling receptacles. Try to empty, clean, and dry these receptacles on regular basis. Additionally, keep food preparation, storage and serving areas clean of grease spills, crumbs and other food particles.
Removing the Threat – Once you have identified the type of fly you are dealing with and the source of the infestation, it is time to get rid of them. Interior light traps and sticky boards will prevent flies from flying around inside your buildings. Further protect your facility from these unwanted visitors by checking air intake vents for proper screening and using air curtains above your doors.