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Fly Control and Prevention
Small fly control requires a partnership between you and your pest provider. Since small flies are an indicator of a sanitation or structural problem within your facility, removal of the breeding source is the only permanent means of avoiding an infestation. Following simple sanitation and structural recommendations can make a big difference in avoiding a fruit fly infestation.
Fly Control and Prevention
- Inspect incoming fruits and vegetables for signs of rot and small flies, and cover them upon receipt.
- Store produce under refrigeration when possible, or in sealable plastic tubs.
- Rinse out empty bottles and cans, and clean garbage containers daily. Use plastic liners.
- Keep garbage areas clean and away from the building when possible; close receptacles with tight-fitting covers.
- Keep the exterior dumpster pad free of spillage and debris.
- Repair areas damaged by water.
- Eliminate standing water, weeds, and tall grass near the facility.
- Clear clutter and items stored on the ground.
- Inspect, seal, and maintain doors in good condition. Keep doors closed, or use double-door vestibules, air doors, or plastic strip doors where needed.
- Install 20 mesh screens on any open windows.
- Eliminate interior standing water and accumulated condensation, and use fans in areas conducive to standing water.
- Replace cracked floor tiles and missing grout, and repair plumbing and drain problems.
- Regularly inspect for and repair cracks in flooring to prevent seepage below.
Sanitation issues are a major contributor to small fly problems. Make sure your staff is:
- Cleaning and sanitizing floors and around drains, disposals, and sinks daily:
- Inspect and sweep thoroughly under appliances, counters, and cook lines.
- Scrub floors using a stiff brush with an industrial floor cleaner. Squeegee all debris and dispose of in the trash; do not dispose of organic debris in drains.
- Mop the floor using an EPA registered sanitizer approved for food and non-food surface application.
- Cleaning drains weekly
- Clean drains and traps using an industrial drain cleaner and a stiff long-handled brush.
- Use a “snake” device in clogged drains to clean out all gelatinous material.
- Disposing of rotting organic matter.
- Performing periodic deep cleaning beneath lines and equipment.
- Cleaning rags and mop heads daily and before storing.
If flies persist after a thorough cleaning, Ecolab can help with treatment and ongoing protection.
More Resources
Depending on the types of flies that are present, different actions may be required for treatment and elimination. Understanding some of the more common types of small flies and their preferred breeding sites can help with fly prevention in your facility.
Although the fruit fly (also known as a small fly) has historically been considered a nuisance pest, recent research proves that small flies contaminate food with bacteria carried from unsanitary surfaces (such as trash, drains, mops, etc.).
You’re enjoying a meal with friends at a restaurant and mid-sentence, you notice a fruit fly buzzing around in front of you. While you probably find this to be a nuisance, did you know it is also a sign of sanitation issues in the restaurant?
