Why the Entire Supply Chain Matters When It Comes to Pest Control

When it comes to a pest problem in the supply chain, that one problem can quickly become everyone’s problem. This is why you must consider pest control with a holistic lens – and not just at your food manufacturing facility.

Your suppliers, their shipments, your facility and your distributors are all key players in the supply chain – and are all responsible for doing their part (for more guidance, download our guide to supply chain management):

• Pest management protocols should be consistent across the supply chain to maintain a strong partnership.

• Everyone involved should follow proper sanitation, facility maintenance and other steps toward proactive pest prevention.

• Each partner’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan should be tailored to the unique pest pressures and individual needs of each facility.

This state of preparedness will not only help you protect your food manufacturing facility from pests, but also help you spot weak links in the supply chain before it’s too late. The quicker you can resolve pest issues in your facilities and with your suppliers, the quicker you’ll get back to maximizing profits.

Despite your greatest efforts, pests are resilient in their search for shelter, water and food, so it’s likely you’ll encounter them in your facility at some point. That’s why you must know what pests you’re vulnerable to and how to spot signs of them early. Here are a few of the most common pests you could see in your food manufacturing facility:

• Rodents – Mice and rats are always going to be an issue, no matter what you are producing or where in the country your facility is located. Dry goods and produce are an attractive food source, cardboard is a source of nesting materials and openings as small as a dime can provide an entryway.

• Ants – They are not just found on your kitchen counter and at your picnic. Any place with food particles and residue can be an attractive target for ants. They are especially active in warmer months when colonies swarm and expand.

• Flies – Facilities that store wet goods are particularly susceptible to flies. These pests move quickly and land often, depositing thousands of bacteria each time they touch a surface.

For information on the points in your supply chain that present biggest risk for pests, the full list of common pests that you may find in your facility and other preparedness tips, download Working the Bugs Out: Your Guide to Supply Chain Pest Management.