A food pest is any creature that lives on or in human food causing damage or contamination or both to that food. Pests are a source of food contamination.
The most common food pests found in catering premises are:
- Rodents, e.g., rats and mice.
- Insects, e.g., houseflies, bluebottles, cockroaches, pharaoh's ants.
- Birds, e.g., pigeons and starlings.
- Animals, e.g., cats and dogs.
Although not a pest, it is important to remember that domestic pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are never to be allowed into food handling areas. They carry bacteria in their fur, feathers, skin, saliva and intestines. Stroking cats, dogs, or other pets will contaminate food handlers.
Pests contribute to food contamination by:
- bacteria- from pests and their droppings
- pests' bodies- eggs, hairs, droppings, etc.
- chemicals- careless use of pest control bait
Pests have the potential to cause a hazard to public health as they carry harmful micro-organisms on their bodies, feet, fur and hair.
They harbour pathogens that lead to serious illness:
- Weil's disease- Rats
- Salmonella, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus- Cockroaches
- Clostridium perfringens– Flies
This is apart from damage caused to food and premises by pest attack or pest infestation. Pests if found in food business by patrons, will tarnish the image and loss of business.