What is a key practice for protecting foods from pests?

Inspecting food deliveries is a critical practice for protecting foods from pests. This step helps ensure that any food entering the establishment is free from contamination, including pest infestations. By thoroughly checking incoming products, workers can identify any signs of pests or damage that may indicate prior exposure to pests, preventing infested items from entering the storage areas and potentially spreading their impact to other food supplies.

Proper inspection can also include checking for packaging integrity, expiration dates, and other indicators of quality that can relate to pest issues. Such vigilance is essential in maintaining food safety and protecting the overall cleanliness of the food handling environment.