What food storage practice helps in preventing pest infestations?

Keeping food items secure is an essential practice in preventing pest infestations. When food is stored securely, it minimizes the chances of attracting pests, such as rodents and insects, which are drawn to accessible food sources. This can include using sealed containers, proper packaging, and ensuring that any potential entry points for pests are well-protected. By securing food items, you create a barrier that helps deter pests from finding a food source to establish themselves and multiply.

Effective storage practices are critical in maintaining the integrity of food and avoiding contamination, which may occur if pests gain access. Thus, this approach not only prevents infestations but also preserves food safety and quality. Other practices, such as rotating inventory and proper stacking, are beneficial in managing food quality and accessibility but they do not specifically address the prevention of pests as directly as securing food items does.