Can Flies Eat Bread?
WouterIf you’re wondering, “Can flies eat bread?” you are not alone. Most species of flies have no teeth, so they can’t chew solid foods. Instead, they have mouth parts that resemble spongy straws and use digestive juices to liquefy their food. While some species prefer a liquid diet, others regurgitate their meals in the form of vomit bubbles.
Thankfully, food contamination risks from flies are low. It’s unlikely that a single fly will affect a healthy human, as the human immune system is capable of repelling most bugs. However, the risk of contamination does vary depending on where you live. Urban flies tend to be less harmful to humans than their rural counterparts. This is largely because urban flies are treated with chemicals that keep their numbers in check.
It’s also a good idea to keep food covered up when you’re not using it. You can also use screens to keep out bugs, while still allowing air to circulate. Another way to keep flies away is to keep your house clean. Wipe down spills, crumbs, and animal waste so that flies don’t get a chance to feast.
As mentioned above, flies can be a nuisance, particularly during the summer, but it’s not a health risk if you don’t let them touch your food. Flies can also be a source of germs, so it’s best not to eat your bread when you’re surrounded by flies.
