What is a critical step in controlling food pests?

The critical step in controlling food pests is removing infested food and cleaning thoroughly. This approach directly addresses the source of the infestation, as contaminated food can serve as a breeding ground for pests and can lead to further spread of the infestation. By eliminating infested items, along with meticulously cleaning the affected areas, the likelihood of pest populations persisting is greatly reduced.

While storing food in airtight containers is beneficial for preventing access to food sources, it does not resolve existing infestations. Using pheromone traps can help monitor pest populations, but it won't eliminate the problem by itself. Reducing humidity is important for creating an environment that is less hospitable to pests, but it does not address the immediate issues presented by infested food. Hence, the primary action of removing infested products and ensuring cleanliness is essential for effective pest control.