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

Maintaining cleanliness and sealing entry points is the most effective method to prevent pests in a food establishment. By ensuring that the premises are clean, food debris and spills that attract pests are minimized. Regular cleaning practices discourage pests by removing potential food sources and nesting areas.

Additionally, sealing entry points is crucial because it prevents pests from gaining access to the building. This includes repairing cracks in walls, sealing gaps around doors and windows, and ensuring that screens are intact. These proactive measures create a barrier that makes it much harder for pests to enter and establish themselves in the environment.

Relying solely on chemical sprays does not address the root causes of pest problems and can be less effective if pests have already infiltrated. Likewise, keeping food items outside the establishment is not safe, as this can attract pests closer to the building, increasing the likelihood of an infestation. Lastly, while daily cleaning is important, it alone is not sufficient without the additional step of sealing entry points to effectively prevent pests.