When Flies Land Do They Puke?
WouterIf you’ve ever wondered what flies eat, the answer is a combination of saliva and stomach acids. The digestive proteins in fly saliva break down solid food before it enters their mouths. Afterward, flies regurgitate the meal in the form of bubbles called vomit.
This saliva is a source of disease-causing microorganisms, and it can be transferred to humans and animals in just a second. It is believed that flies can carry viruses, bacteria, and cholera through the saliva they expel. It is important to keep flies away from food to help keep the environment clean.
When flies land, they will vomit onto the surface of the food. Their saliva is made up of digestive enzymes which break down the food and dissipate it into liquid. Fly saliva is then sucked up by their proboscis. Consequently, fly saliva can erode the surface of a human’s skin and attack nerve endings.
Flies are a nuisance during the summer months. They tend to congregate around food and pet waste, which they can feed on. Using insecticides and improving hygiene practices can help to keep flies at bay. It is also recommended to cover any food left outdoors to prevent the flies from getting it.
