How Common Are Fruit Flies?
WouterFruit flies are tiny red-eyed insects that can wreak havoc on fresh fruit. While their origin is unknown, they have been a constant companion to humans for millennia. As the name suggests, they feed on bacteria from decaying fruits and vegetables. They are often found in areas near garbage disposals.
To minimize your chances of infestation, keep your kitchen clean and free of garbage. Dispose of food scraps and garbage outside in containers that are tightly sealed. Moreover, store your fruit and vegetables in areas where they cannot be easily accessed. Food that is left out can also attract fruit flies, so make sure your produce is stored in an airtight container.
While fruit flies are not harmful to human health, they can be an unpleasant nuisance. They can spread bacteria and germs, so make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after picking up the flies. Also, wash your fruit and vegetables before eating them. While fruit flies may not pose a health risk, you should always make sure that your fruits and vegetables are clean before you serve them to guests.
Fruit flies are most common during the fall harvest. However, they can also be a problem inside the home all year long. The adult fruit fly usually reaches three to four millimeters in length. Typically, it lives for 40 to 50 days. You can find fruit flies in the produce section of grocery stores. They also tend to hang around garbage cans and dumpsters.
