High Level of Food-Borne Illnesses Reported in High School Cafeterias
2/6/2007 In response to recently released data on food borne illness outbreaks in American high schools, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) advises better pest control practices to protect against pest-related food contamination.
In 20 jurisdictions across the country, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) reported unacceptable conditions in high school cafeterias. These conditions included the presence of roaches, both dead and alive, rodent droppings and improper food storage and handling techniques.
"The pests, such as rodents and roaches, highlighted in CSPI's inspections are major threats to food safety and consumer health," said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association. "As an industry, we advise schools to partner with a licensed pest professional in implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) program to help prevent pest related health and property threats. NPMA encourages IPM as a responsible pest control approach for protecting students and faculty."
Integrated Pest Management involves common sense and sound solutions for treating and controlling pests, which incorporate three steps - inspection, identification and treatment. Treatment options vary from sealing cracks and removing food and water sources to pesticide treatments when necessary.
NPMA offers the following pest-proofing and inspection tips for schools:
1) Seal up cracks and holes outside of the facility.
2) Keep food sealed and stored properly, particularly in kitchens and cafeterias.
3) Clean high-volume areas daily where crumbs and trash are more likely to build up.
4) Dispose of garbage regularly and store in sealed containers.
5) Keep crawl spaces ventilated and dry.
6) Look for rodent droppings and gnawing marks in food sources, which indicate a pest problem.
7) Call a qualified pest professional for additional advice and treatment.
"Regular pest control service treatments by a licensed and trained pest control professional are the best way to protect against pest related infestations, property damage and food contamination," advises Mannes.
To find a licensed and trained pest professional visit www.pestworld.org.
The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.
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