Specialists in sustainable pest management have emphasized the growing need for the food service industry to implement stricter measures for pest control, with a special focus on rodents, cockroaches, ants, weevils, flies, birds, and other crawling animals. Although these pests are often kept hidden, they pose a significant risk to both public health and commercial facilities.
Emmanuel Rosales, a specialist from SIFSA, emphasized that pests not only contaminate food and work spaces but also transmit dangerous diseases and cause damage to facilities. The economic impact they generate is considerable, affecting both daily operations and the reputation of establishments.
In the current context, where prepared food delivery services have experienced exponential growth, there has been an increase in foot traffic and waste, creating conducive conditions for infestations. Rosales highlighted that the food industry, ranging from cafes and bars to full-service restaurants and cloud kitchens, is projected to reach an estimated value of 90.43 billion dollars in 2024, with projections reaching 138.81 billion dollars in 2029.
To prevent infestations, Rosales suggested implementing integrated pest management, which includes sealing cracks and access points for rodents, birds, and insects, as well as ensuring that establishments do not provide shelter or water sources for these animals. He also emphasized the importance of proper waste management and constant monitoring.
In areas such as food preparation and storage, utensil washing, waste and recycling management, as well as the entry and exit of goods, specific measures must be taken to prevent the presence of pests. Critical points such as cracks and holes, pipes, windows and doors, damp areas, and food storage must be monitored, as they can be vulnerable spots for pest proliferation.
Rosales stressed that proper pest prevention and control are essential not only for public health but also to ensure the continuity and good reputation of establishments within a constantly growing industry.
