Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

Insecticide sprays that kill cockroaches and flies should be used?

1. Only if they are approved for food areas

2. Anywhere pests are seen

3. Only if applied by a manager

4. On food-contact surfaces if washed off later

The correct answer is: Only if they are approved for food areas

Using insecticide sprays that kill cockroaches and flies in food areas is critical to ensuring food safety and public health. When pest control products are labeled for use in food areas, it means they have been tested and approved for safety in these environments. This type of regulation ensures that the chemicals used do not pose a significant risk of contamination to food, utensils, or surfaces that may come into contact with food, thereby minimizing the potential for chemical residues that could harm consumers. The importance of using approved insecticides is rooted in maintaining the health standards that protect customers and employees within a food establishment. It reflects best practices in pest management, underscoring the need to adhere to safe handling and application guidelines for any pesticide used around food. Using insecticides anywhere pests are seen, applying them only by a manager, or utilizing them on food-contact surfaces—even with intentions of washing them off later—can lead to contamination risks, unsafe food handling practices, and violations of health regulations. Therefore, the safest approach is to utilize insecticides that are specifically approved for use in food areas, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.