Anyone who discovers a cockroach in a restaurant kitchen should first secure any exposed food and avoid using food that may have been contaminated. Next, document where and when it was found, identify the cockroach species, and use monitoring traps to determine the extent of the infestation. If a cockroach infestation is confirmed, the German Environment Agency recommends professional pest control.
What exactly are cockroaches?
The term “cockroach” is often used broadly for cockroaches found in kitchens. The German Environment Agency specifically refers to the Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis) as the kitchen cockroach. However, the German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is also commonly found in kitchens and food businesses. Cockroaches prefer dark, warm, and humid areas, and hide, for example, behind kitchen fixtures, in cracks, or near sources of moisture and food.
Source: German Environment Agency – Recognize and control cockroaches
Products for monitoring and controlling cockroaches compared
| Product | Active ingredient/mode of action | Use | User | Pack/price | Safety |
| Catchmaster cockroach trap 100i | Chemical-free sticky trap for monitoring | Kitchens, restaurants, storage areas, and food areas | Monitoring in residential and commercial settings | 75 pieces / €29.99 | No chemical active ingredient; primarily used to monitor infestations |
| Advion cockroach gel | Indoxacarb 1.28%; the active ingredient is activated after ingestion | Restaurants, food areas, hotels, etc. | Professional users | 30 g / €40.99 | Biocidal product; includes H412. Follow the label and instructions for use |
| nk cockroach gel pro | Imidacloprid 2.15% as a gel bait | Restaurants, food processing facilities, hotels, etc. | 10 g version for non-professional and professional users | 6 x 10 g / €59.99 | Biocidal product; read the label and product information |
What to do about cockroaches in a restaurant kitchen
1. Secure food and affected areas
Protect uncovered food and do not use any food that may be contaminated. Keep affected areas clean until the situation has been assessed, and protect food from contamination.
Source: EU Regulation 852/2004 on food hygiene
2. Check for an infestation and identify the cockroach species
Check where cockroaches are found and use monitoring traps along potential pathways. Accurate identification helps you choose the right control method.
3. Reduce food sources and hiding places
Store food in sealed containers, remove leftovers and waste, and inspect and clean cracks, crevices, and hard-to-reach areas.
4. Choose the appropriate control method
The appropriate measure depends on the cockroach species, infestation severity, and location. When using biocidal products, always follow the authorization, user category, label, and instructions for use.
Source: BAuA – TRGS 540: Use of biocidal products
→ Explore cockroach control products and kits
5. Document the infestation and measures taken
Document where cockroaches are found, monitoring points, trap results, and measures taken. Then check regularly for any ongoing pest activity.
When is professional cockroach control advisable?
The German Environment Agency recommends professional pest control when a cockroach infestation has been confirmed. This is especially important in cases of severe or recurring infestations, hard-to-find infestation sources, and sensitive areas such as restaurants and commercial kitchens.
Kaeferling Service supports catering and commercial customers in Cologne, Hürth, and the surrounding area with professional infestation assessments, treatments, monitoring, and documentation.
Professional cockroach control with Kaeferling Service
Frequently asked questions about German cockroaches
How can I identify German cockroaches?
Typical signs include visible cockroaches, droppings, or shed skins in dark, warm areas. Identify the cockroach species as accurately as possible.
What should I do if I find a cockroach in a restaurant kitchen?
Protect food, document where the cockroach was found, and use monitoring traps to check for more cockroaches. If an infestation is confirmed, seek professional help.
Can food still be used after a cockroach infestation?
Food that may have been contaminated should not be used. Food must be protected from contamination.
Are glue traps enough to control German cockroaches?
Glue traps are mainly used for monitoring and follow-up checks. Confirmed infestations often require additional measures.
Can any employee use cockroach gel bait?
No, it depends on the product. According to the product information, nk Schabengel Pro 10 g is intended for both non-professional and professional users, while Advion Schabengel is intended for professional users only.
What should I keep in mind when children and pets are around?
Use biocidal products only in accordance with the label and instructions for use, and follow the relevant access and safety instructions.
When should you call a professional pest controller?
Professional help is advisable in cases of confirmed, severe, or recurring infestations, as well as in sensitive catering and food-handling areas.
More on this topic: Find out about cockroach species, typical hiding places, causes of infestations, and control methods in our detailed guide to cockroaches.
