Maintaining a clean and hygienic food environment is essential for any food business. The presence of mouse droppings is a serious food safety hazard that must be addressed immediately. Rodents carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria, which can contaminate food, surfaces, and equipment.
If you see mouse droppings in a food preparation or storage area, follow these steps to ensure food safety and compliance with UK food hygiene regulations.
1. Stop and Assess the Situation
Upon spotting mouse droppings, do not ignore the issue. Their presence indicates an active rodent problem that could pose a health risk to customers. Take immediate action by:
- Notifying your supervisor or food safety officer.
- Identifying the affected area—whether it’s a food storage room, kitchen, or dining area.
- Checking for additional signs of rodent activity, such as gnawed packaging, urine stains, or nesting materials.
2. Quarantine and Dispose of Contaminated Items
Rodent droppings can contaminate food and packaging. If you find droppings near food, put rubber gloves on your hands and do the following:
- Remove and dispose of any affected food products.
- Seal and discard contaminated packaging.
- Do not attempt to clean and reuse and food or any packaging materials.
Always err on the side of caution—if in doubt, throw it out. Any food or packaging that the rodent may have come into contact with should be thrown out.
3. Clean and Disinfect the Area
Once contaminated items are removed, follow strict cleaning and sanitation procedures:
- Wear disposable gloves and use disposable cloths or paper towels.
- Use a detergent solution to clean the area and remove organic matter.
- Apply a disinfectant spray (approved for food environments) to kill any bacteria left behind.
- Ensure that all work surfaces, utensils, and equipment in the vicinity are also thoroughly cleaned and sanitised.
Important: Avoid sweeping or vacuuming droppings, as this can spread bacteria into the air through dust particles.
4. Identify and Eliminate Entry Points
Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as 6mm (the width of a pencil). To prevent further infestations:
- Inspect for holes, cracks, or gaps in walls, doors, and windows.
- Seal any openings using rodent-proof materials, such as steel wool or metal plates.
- Ensure that doors close properly to prevent easy rodent access.
- Regularly check for signs of gnawed packaging or droppings.
- A professional BPCA certified pest control company can do this step for you.
5. Implement Proper Waste Management
Rodents are attracted to food waste and improperly stored rubbish. Prevent infestation by:
- Using tightly sealed bins for food waste.
- Emptying bins regularly, especially at the end of each shift.
- Keeping bin areas clean and free from food debris.
- Storing food in sealed, rodent-proof containers.
- A professional BPCA certified pest control company can advise on best practice for waste management
6. Contact a Pest Control Professional
If mouse droppings are found, a professional pest control service must be called immediately. They will:
- Conduct a full inspection of the premises.
- Identify the source and size of the infestation.
- Implement safe and effective rodent control measures (baits and traps)
- Block all entry points to the premises
- Provide guidance on the management of waste so as not to attract rodents.
- Provide ongoing monitoring and preventive strategies.
A pest control record should be kept for Environmental Health inspections, ensuring compliance with UK food safety laws.
7. Train Staff on Pest Prevention
Food handlers play a crucial role in detecting and preventing rodent infestations. Ensure that all staff:
- Know how to identify signs of rodent activity.
- Follow strict cleaning and food storage procedures.
- Report any pest sightings immediately.
- Complete a Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety Course, which includes pest control procedures.
For comprehensive training on food hygiene and pest prevention, enrol in our Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety Course today.
Take Action Now to Protect Your Business
Ignoring mouse droppings can lead to serious food safety violations, customer complaints, and potential legal action. Protect your customers and your business by following proper cleaning, pest control, and food hygiene procedures.
