Few people will return to a business that has made them sick via contaminated food, which is why any business that deals with food also needs a strategy for dealing with flies. Help keep flies out of the food by keeping these factors in mind.
The Law
The hospitality industry in Australia is governed by strict regulations, including the Australian and the Commonwealth Food Standard Codes.
Both sets of codes are designed to ensure that all food bought and sold is safe, wholesome and uncontaminated.
Standard 3.1.1, Division 2, section (4) (d) of the Commonwealth Food Standard Codes states that “food is not suitable if it….contains a biological…agent…that is foreign to the nature of food”.
Glue boards are often recommended by health inspectors for any area where food is handled. This is primarily due to a concern that flies may explode on impact with an electronic light trap.
Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
HACCP is a system for controlling potential hazards at critical points in the production of food and is considered the standard for safety in the food industry.
Flying insects are considered a risk to food safety due to their potential to carry disease and bacteria; an effective insect control strategy is therefore essential.
Know your enemy; facts about flies
§ They lay eggs on rotting waste, garbage and animal excrement
§ Can lay 150 eggs in 24 hours
§ Are able to travel long distances
§ Flies carry bacteria and can transmit diseases such as Salmonella, Listeria and Ecoli
§ Are unable to see insect light traps 30 meters away, but respond to them within 3 to 4 meters
§ Usually travel within 2 meters of the floor and use UV rays to navigate
Light trap options
UV light traps can be a highly effective way to deal with flies in food handling areas. Here are 3 of your best options.
The Genus Cobra
§ Emits UV at 180 degree angle (front, top & sides) which improves insect attraction
§ Has a large catchment area
§ Ideal for use in food handling areas
§ Includes a UV light reflecting panel behind tubes that enhances output and keeps insects from view
§ Features 45 Watt output
The Genus Fli
§ Easy to service
§ Wall or table top mounting
§ Mounts both vertically & horizontally
§ Stainless steel finish
§ Includes UV reflectors for increased output
§ Suitable for food preparation areas
§ Its 30 Watt output means reduced energy consumption
The Genus Illume
§ Offers discreet insect control
§ Perfect for front of house areas such as bars, restaurants and reception areas
§ Available in a choice of white or black
§ Features 26 Watt output making it an energy efficient option
Placing your light trap
Consider the following factors before placing your light traps.
§ Steer clear of competing light sources
§ Ask staff where they have noticed flies
§ Ensure easy access for maintenance
§ Focus on intercepting flies before they get to the food
§ Target potential breeding sites
§ Place traps away from air blowing outlets such as A/C or heaters
UV light meters
§ Allow you to monitor the quality of UV light output so you get best results from your light trap
§ Measures ambient light so you can place the traps in the best positions
Maintaining light traps and glue boards
§ Replace tubes regularly; tubes are ineffective when below 50% output
§ Wipe inside & outside of insect light trap at least twice each week
§ If using glue boards, replace them every 4-6 weeks depending on the season
For more information on light traps, glue boards and the best ways to deal with flies around food contact David Fielder on [email protected] or 0434 698 215