Food Handler · Facility Design and Management

What is the purpose of an integrated pest management (IPM) program?

Correct answer

To prevent and control pests by denying them food, water, and shelter, and by working with licensed pest control as needed

A To welcome pests into the facility
B To prevent and control pests by denying them food, water, and shelter, and by working with licensed pest control as needed
C To use as many pesticides as possible
D To ignore signs of pests

Why this is the answer

An integrated pest management (IPM) program prevents and controls pests using a combination of strategies: denying pests access (sealing cracks, screens, closing doors), removing their food and water sources (cleaning, proper waste handling, eliminating standing water), and removing shelter (reducing clutter), supplemented by monitoring and, when necessary, treatment by a licensed pest control operator. Pests like rodents and insects carry pathogens and contaminate food, so prevention is the priority. Managers watch for signs of pests (droppings, gnaw marks, egg cases) and act quickly. A proactive IPM approach is far more effective and safer than relying on heavy pesticide use after an infestation.

Source: FDA Food Code — Integrated Pest Management

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What is the purpose of an integrated pest management (IPM) program?

Why this is the answer

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