Fruit flies
Drosophilidae; multiple species
Fruit flies seek fermenting or overripe organic material. The source may be visible fruit, but also leftover drinks or waste.
Fruit flies or drain flies?
Fruit flies are small flies often seen around fruit and drink residues. Drain flies have a distinctly hairy, moth-like appearance and are often found near drains. Location alone does not provide certain identification.
Where does the problem come from?
Check overripe fruit, empty bottles, bins and spilled liquids beneath equipment. In a bar, drink residues can remain in hard-to-reach places.
Do not look only where adult flies are flying. Their breeding site needs to be found to reduce recurrence.
Source removal and prevention
Remove affected material and thoroughly clean waste and storage areas. Keep waste sealed and include hard-to-reach places in the cleaning plan.
A trap can reveal activity but does not remove a food or breeding source. If the problem keeps recurring, have the insect and source assessed; small flies may belong to other groups.
Frequently asked questions
Sources and further information
General information, not a diagnosis for your location. Have the species identified if in doubt. Consult a healthcare professional about health symptoms and do not use pesticides without appropriate instructions.
Further reading
Help for your business
RBL Services helps business clients in Noord-Holland, Utrecht, Zuid-Holland and Flevoland. Discuss an inspection for your business premises, kitchen, production site or homeowners’ association.
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