What could be a sign of a severe pest issue in a storage area?

A sign of a severe pest issue in a storage area is torn or damaged packaging. This condition typically indicates that pests, such as rodents or insects, have gained access to the stored food products. They often chew through or damage packaging materials to reach the food inside. When packaging is compromised, it can lead to contamination of the food, create an unsanitary environment, and pose health risks to consumers. Therefore, observing torn or damaged packaging should prompt immediate investigation and action to address potential pest infestations.

On the other hand, fresh produce, organized shelves, and clean surfaces generally suggest proper food handling and storage practices, which are not indicative of pest problems. Fresh produce implies that items are still in good condition, organized shelves indicate that items are stored properly, and clean surfaces suggest that appropriate cleaning protocols are being followed. None of these conditions would raise immediate concerns regarding pest activity.