9 signs of pest infestation in food processing plants

Pests in food processing plants are more than just unwelcome guests; they're potential threats to your brand, health, and overall production. But with early detection and the right tools, like our state-of-the-art Lumnia LED Insect Light Traps, you can protect your premises. Here’s how to spot those sneaky critters before they become a major headache.

The basics: Why pests love your food processing facility 

All creatures, including pests, are on the hunt for three things: a cozy home, a consistent food source, and a bit of water. Your food processing site unintentionally rolls out the red carpet for them. But by understanding their needs and staying alert, you can keep these unwanted visitors at bay.

Spotting the infestation: 9 signs to watch for

1. One man’s rubbish is another pest’s buffet

If your waste area looks ransacked or food remnants are disappearing, pests might be the culprits. Common trespassers? Flies, cockroaches, ants, and rodents. And remember, it's not just pests—watch out for other animals like stray cats and dogs too.

2. Fly spots and swarms

Notice spots or clusters of flies around trash bins, food, or damp spots? Time to initiate fly control measures, as these little insects can be big disease carriers.

3. Damage to the fabric of the building

Damage noted on the building exterior - such as gnaw marks - are a warning sign that rodents are active on the site and damage to the roof will indicate a bird problem.

4. Shed skins, exoskeletons or egg cases

Insects shed their outer layer of skin or exoskeletons as they grow through their specific type of metamorphosis. Examples of insects which shed their skins are carpenter ants, spiders and cicadas. Cockroaches, however, will shed their exoskeleton as they grow from the nymph phase into adulthood. In addition to this, if you find egg casings from any insect, you can be sure that there is an active infestation on site.

5. Damage to packaging

Holes and gnaw marks on food packaging and containers speak volumes about the presence of a rodent infestation on your site. 

6. Pest droppings

As pests eat and nest on site they are bound to leave faeces, so it is important to be able to identify the different types of pests from the droppings they leave behind.

7. Live sightings

These can take the form of eggs, larvae, pupae, or adults.Infestations can be noted in almost any area, however where the needs of pests are being met is usually where you will find them. Check high-traffic areas like storage rooms, canteens, kitchens and lockers. In addition, you might find nesting material, droppings, or sharp odours. These signs all mean that there is an infestation that needs to be addressed.

8. Rodent runways

Smudges or grease marks on walls or skirtings are a sign that rodents are using that area frequently to get into the various areas in the production site. 

9. Webbing 

Moths utilise webbing for nesting, protection and camouflage. Usually this kind of activity is noted in facilities with products that are stored for longer periods of time. Moths are Stored Product Insects (SPIs) and trust us, you don’t SPIs running rampant (they vie with termites for the dubious honour of being the most expensive pest).

Got pests? Here’s your game plan:

1. Educate your teams: Knowledge is power. With proper training, your staff can become your eyes and ears, spotting pests early on. Rentokil offers pest awareness training that can assist staff in pest identification.
2. Continuous cleaning processes: A pristine facility with a rigorous cleaning schedule, especially in waste areas, is your first line of defence.
3. Product and stock rotations: Moving products and stocks frequently deters pests from nesting and settling in.
4. Proofing and housekeeping: Maintain your site and ensure your facility is sealed tight, blocking all entry points for pests.
5. Communicate: If any person on your site notes an infestation, alert your pest control provider immediately.

Remember, effective pest control isn't just reactive—it's proactive. Understand your facility, partner with experts, and stay one step ahead of pests. Don’t let pests threaten your brand or production. Get expert assistance with Rentokil today!