A Fly Lands On My Food. Do I Still Eat It?

Ever notice flies buzzing and seeing a fly lands on your food? What is your usual reaction when that happens? You flick them away, brushing off on some surfaces the fly has landed on or will you dump away the food altogether? Some of us also wonder... a fly lands on my food! Do I still eat it?

Is it safe to consume food and drinks if a fly lands on it?

The scary truth is; flies are known for spreading harmful pathogens to humans. This is because of their food preference and favorite hangout spots such as trash cans, waste bins and garbage centers. Besides feeding on human food such as fruits or vegetables, their palette also includes garbage and excrement, fungal, decaying or rotting matter.

What are the dangers we should be aware of in flies infestation?

The risk of transferring these organisms to the food and drinks we are consuming as they land on these surfaces or dropping their fecal matter and any possible traces of bacteria, causing diseases such as cholera, dysentery, polio or typhoid.

How can we avoid becoming a victim to food contamination and poisoning?

If you are dining outside

• Refer to the Grade Score of the restaurant. This is a Grading System for Eating Establishments and Food Stalls stipulated by National Environment Agency (NEA). The different grading score, ranging from A to D indicates level of facility maintenance relating to food hygiene, quality of housekeeping and general cleanliness.
• Observe the environment to see if the place is generally kept clean. Any presence of physical pests scurrying around waste and filth are adequately contained and removed
• Refer to reviews and forums on any food hygiene concerns and complaints

If you are a food business owner

Read more on the Food Regulation Standards and how public and consumers’ views, ratings and social media engagement matters in today’s high expectations in dining choices.

If you are eating at home

• Keep your home, particularly food preparation area, clean and hygienic
• Do regular checks in your home to spot any potential pest infestation. Click here to read on why you should be worried of small flies in your home.
• Engage professional help in proper inspection and treatment especially if your pest problem is in its early stages.
• Rinse all fresh and raw produce thoroughly and ensure food are cooked properly
• Cover all cooked food with a netting if you are not planning to eat immediately
• Dispose all trash, food waste and remains immediately and properly

Similarly, some people find themselves sharing their food with other kind of pests instead. Click here to read more about having ants in your drinks and whether you should still continue to drink it.