What is the best practice to prevent pests in a food establishment?

Maintaining cleanliness and properly sealing potential entry points is essential for preventing pests in a food establishment. Pests, such as rodents and insects, are attracted to food sources, so keeping the facility clean reduces available food and hidden nesting sites. Regularly cleaning surfaces, properly disposing of waste, and eliminating spills can significantly lower pest attraction.

Properly sealing entry points, such as gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing, prevents pests from accessing the establishment in the first place. This proactive approach creates a less inviting environment for pests and is a fundamental part of a comprehensive pest management strategy, which is not only effective but also promotes food safety and hygiene standards in the establishment.

In contrast, keeping food in open containers would directly attract pests, and using chemical pest repellents can be risky if not applied properly, possibly leading to contamination. Encouraging food waste accumulation outside would serve as an attractive breeding ground for pests rather than an effective prevention method. Thus, focusing on cleanliness and sealing entry points is a best practice in pest control.