A Dunedin supermarket is facing a troubling rodent infestation. Rats have been seen in the aisles, raising the question of potential contamination of foodstuffs.
This has prompted MPI to investigate as Woolworths New Zealand confirmed a recent increase in pest activity at its Countdown Dunedin South store, as a pest control contractor has become a regular at the store. To try and mitigate the issue, the supermarket has put new zeal into its cleaning measures, reinforced by further 'deep-cleaning', coupled with traps in the form of bait stations being positioned onsite.
The first sightings of the rodent's presence were made in October, with the rat population only increasing as Summer has kicked in. Despite this, a spokesperson for the supermarket said they had a comprehensive strategy to manage the pests, adding that food safety was of utmost priority. Staff have been encouraged to report any sightings of the pests that have made the store their home.
Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director general of MPI's New Zealand Food Safety, said it was investigating the rat problem at the supermarket. It is a requirement for food businesses to ensure food being sold was safe and suitable for consumption. A requirement that obviously encompasses pest management, which must be checked regularly by an independent verifier.
An employee has shared with the Otago Daily Times that droppings and urine had been present since October. However, it appears the rats have managed to avoid the pest control bait stations and have continued to multiply over the last four months.
Currently, the supermarket and MPI are working together to address the problem.
