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Flies in a Restaurant: Fruit, Drain, and House Flies
Flies in a kitchen are more than a nuisance. Oregon State Extension says they can cause food contamination and are a health concern. The first step is knowing which fly you have.
What kinds of flies show up in restaurants?
House flies are about 1/4 inch long. They can carry germs from garbage to food and prep surfaces, and they leave small specks on surfaces
Fruit flies are about 1/8 inch long with bright red eyes. They like ripe and fermenting produce
Drain flies are about 1/8 inch long and look fuzzy and gray. Their larvae grow in the film inside drains, especially floor drains
Why does the type matter?
Each fly breeds in a different place. Oregon State says finding and removing the place where larvae grow is the key to ending an infestation. It also says insecticides rarely end an indoor fly problem on their own.
Where do flies breed in a kitchen?
Floor drains and sink drains with buildup
Forgotten produce in a corner or storeroom
Wet buildup under equipment and trash can liners
Dirty mops and cleaning tools
Spills in soda dispenser drip trays
Loose or cracked floor tiles and plumbing leaks
What can you do?
Clean drains often so they stay free of organic buildup
Cover prepared food and store food in airtight containers or the fridge
Take out trash daily and keep bins clean inside and out
Keep dumpster lids closed, and keep dumpsters away from entrances
Let mops and brushes dry fast, and store them off the floor
Fix leaks, and clean ice machine and fridge drip lines
Keep doors and windows tight, with screens on any window you open
What about fly lights?
Oregon State suggests UV light traps with sticky boards over electric zappers. The Food Code summary from South Dakota also says these devices may not be placed over a food prep area. Ask your provider where to put them.
Quick Answers
How do I tell fruit flies from drain flies?
Fruit flies have red eyes and stay near ripe produce. Drain flies look fuzzy and gray and stay near drains. If you are not sure, text us a photo.
Do fly sprays work in a restaurant?
Rarely, on their own. Oregon State says the key is to find and remove the place where the flies are breeding.
Where do house flies come from?
Most larger flies come in from outside. Oregon State says to seal openings and keep dumpsters clean and away from doors.
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