A Comparison of Pre and Post COVID-19 Pandemic Pest Related Violations in Restaurants within the Fraser Health Authority

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the food service sector, particularly in-person dining at restaurants and bars, leading to a decrease in regular inspections by Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) in British Columbia. As restrictions on indoor dining ease, it is essential to ensure that food is being prepared and handled in a safe and sanitary manner. However, neglecting pest management and sanitation practices in restaurants can lead to food-borne illnesses. The research project investigated whether there had been an increase in the number and severity of pest-related violations in the Fraser Health Authority (FHA) following the COVID-19 pandemic.