How should food and food utensils be stored to help prevent pest problems?

Storing food and food utensils at least 15 cm off the floor is an important practice in preventing pest problems. Elevating items above the ground helps to create a barrier that reduces the likelihood of pests, such as rodents and insects, accessing food supplies. This practice not only minimizes exposure to potential contamination from pests but also enhances cleaning effectiveness, as it allows for easier access to the floor area for regular sweeping and mopping. Keeping items elevated also complies with food safety regulations designed to protect public health.

In contrast, storing items on the ground increases the risk of pests accessing the food and utensils, as they have unrestricted movement to them. Placing items directly under windows can expose them to pests coming from the outside, as windows are common entry points for insects and other pests. Additionally, while storing items in plastic bags can provide some protection, it is not as effective as elevating items off the floor, and without proper sealing, pests can still penetrate these bags.