Don’t Let Your Bottom Line Get Burnt by Pest-Transmitted Diseases and Foodborne Illnesses

Rodents, cockroaches and flies – just the sound of their names is enough to make food manufacturers, restaurateurs and diners alike cringe. But the reality is that food establishments deal with these pests on a regular basis. In fact, a survey revealed that half of patrons saw a pest at a restaurant visit in the past 12 months.

In that same survey, 76 percent of diners said they would never return to a restaurant if they saw multiple pests anywhere in the restaurant. The reviews are in, and food experiences garnished with pest sightings can ruin a customer’s appetite for return visits or repeated purchases.

What you also need to know is that pests can cause damage to your business in the form of diseases they can transmit and through related foodborne illnesses, which can lead to shutdowns or even lawsuits in severe cases. According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 250 foodborne illnesses have been described. Many of those diseases are caused by pathogens that can be carried by pests. Executing a proactive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan will help you protect against life-threatening bacteria and diseases spreading at your establishment.

At a glance, the image below shows the bacteria and diseases that rodents, cockroaches and flies can transmit.

To help prevent these pests from transmitting diseases and illnesses that can wreak havoc on your establishment, remove all unnecessary food and water sources, ensure food is stored in airtight containers, vacuum regularly, thoroughly clean the kitchen between shifts, dispose of any garbage as often as possible and seal all cracks and crevices on the exterior walls. Consult your pest management provider to discuss maintenance and sanitation best practices.