What Is Integrated Pest Management? + Free Checklist
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive pest control approach that emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment rather than routine pesticide application. IPM is the preferred approach in food facilities because it minimizes chemical use while effectively controlling pests.
IPM Principles
- Exclusion: Prevent pests from entering (seal gaps, screen vents)
- Sanitation: Remove food sources and harborage
- Monitoring: Track pest activity with traps and inspections
- Identification: Know what pests you're dealing with
- Treatment: Targeted intervention when thresholds are exceeded
- Evaluation: Assess effectiveness and adjust strategy
Common Food Facility Pests
- Rodents: Mice, rats—can carry 35+ diseases
- Cockroaches: German roaches most common in kitchens
- Flies: House flies, fruit flies, drain flies
- Stored Product Pests: Moths, beetles in dry goods
- Birds: Pigeons, sparrows near loading docks
IPM in Food Safety Plans
GFSI-benchmarked standards (SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000) require documented IPM programs. This includes pest control contracts, service records, trending analysis, and corrective actions when pests are found.