Commercial kitchens are ideal environments for pests like rodents, roaches, and ants due to the abundance of food and water sources. This is why the kitchens of pubs, bars, and restaurants are particularly attractive to pests. One of the main contributors to pest problems is inadequate cleaning or sanitization. Many pests are drawn to warmth and excess moisture found in kitchens, such as behind appliances, under tables, or inside cardboard packaging. If you spot pests in the open, you need commercial pest control services in Nashville TN right away.

Common Pests to Look Out For

If you own a food-related business, be on the lookout for these frequently seen pests in Nashville commercial kitchens.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are among the most common and troublesome pests in commercial kitchens. Their small size allows them to hide in tight spaces, making them hard to spot unless you thoroughly inspect the area. Roaches prefer dark, hidden areas during the day and venture out to search for food at night. They can also trigger allergies or asthma in some individuals. While cockroaches don’t bite, their legs have spines that could scratch you, and they carry harmful bacteria that could lead to infections.

Flies

Flies are often drawn to the food smells in commercial kitchens, entering through sewage pipes, drain openings, or cracks in floors. Flies are typically found around garbage or leftover food. Different fly species are attracted to different food types. For instance, fruit flies are drawn to fermenting sugars, while drain flies prefer rotting food and organic waste.

Ants

Ants are a frequent nuisance in kitchens, often attracted by food, moisture, and grease. Due to their small size, ants can enter a restaurant through even the tiniest cracks. While they’re mostly just annoying, ants can also pose health risks. All types of ants can bite, which causes itching or discomfort, with some individuals experiencing allergic reactions.

Rodents

Mice and rats are attracted to the abundant food sources in commercial kitchens, nesting in areas with easy access to food and can quickly reproduce in these environments. Rodents often enter through gaps or holes in walls, floors, windows, or ceilings. They can spread diseases that could contaminate food if not managed properly.

Fleas

Fleas can enter commercial kitchens from animals or guests that bring them into the building. These blood-sucking insects can easily jump from one host to another, making them hard to track. Fleas are particularly troublesome because they’re difficult to spot and can exacerbate respiratory conditions or cause allergic reactions.

Stored Product Insects

Also known as pantry pests, these insects typically infest food packages, especially those that have been opened. They can also chew through some sealed packages. These pests can contaminate large quantities of food. Common examples include beetles, weevils, moths, and mites.

Spiders

While spiders can help control other pests by eating them, they can be a problem if their population grows too large. Spiders are often found in kitchens because they provide easy access to their prey. However, spiders can multiply quickly, as one egg sac can hatch hundreds of baby spiders. Spider bites can lead to infections, skin damage, or severe reactions if left untreated.

Commercial Pest Control Services in Nashville, TN

If you’re a Nashville business owner who has spotted any of these pests, contact us at 615-502-2855 for a free quote and consultation on commercial pest control in TN.