What are fruit flies ?

Fruit flies, also known as drosophila or midges, are small flying creatures found in our kitchens and orchards. Behind their innocent appearance, these little creatures play a crucial role in the ecosystem and in scientific research.

These tiny insects, which belong to the Drosophilidae family, are often attracted to ripe and decaying fruit. Their ability to quickly locate these food sources makes them frequent guests in our kitchens and dustbins. Although they are sometimes considered an inconvenience, they do not generally pose a serious threat to human health.

Fruit flies play an important ecological role by acting as dispersal agents for many plant species. When they feed on decaying fruit, they also ingest fungal spores and seeds, which are then dispersed into their environment as the flies move to new food sources. This contributes to the propagation of plants and the diversity of flora in nature.

How can I get rid of fruit flies ?

There are simple, effective ways to get rid of fruit flies in the home and keep your kitchen clean and welcoming.

1 - Hygiene : The first step in eliminating fruit flies is to keep your kitchen clean. Regularly clean worktops, sinks and areas where fruit is stored. Fruit flies are attracted to food scraps and waste, so it's essential to keep these areas spotless.

2 - Proper fruit storage : Store ripe or over-ripe fruit in the fridge, as this is often where fruit flies lay their eggs. This will help prevent them from developing and reduce their presence in your kitchen.

3 - Eliminate sources of attraction : Fruit flies are attracted by the sweet smell of rotting fruit. Make sure you quickly dispose of over-ripe or damaged fruit in a sealed bin bag and take it out regularly.

4 - Using fruit fly traps : You'll find these at Penn'Ty Bio. You can also make your own. A typical trap consists of a small container filled with cider vinegar or fruit juice, with a lid pierced with small holes to allow the flies in, but not out. The flies will be attracted by the smell, enter the trap and be trapped.

5 - Natural repellents : Certain smells can deter fruit flies. Try placing cloves, bay leaves or citrus peel near areas where flies are common. The smell will displease the flies and keep them away.

6 - Cleaning drains : Fruit flies can sometimes develop in sink drains. Use a mixture of boiling water and bicarbonate of soda to clean the pipes and eliminate any organic residue that might attract them.

Why use natural insecticides ?

Putting an end to fruit flies is one thing, but wouldn't it be even better if you could also protect your health and the environment? Did you know that some conventional insecticide particles remain in your treated rooms for several months? Fumigants are the worst because the particles fall back onto all the objects, textiles and surfaces in the room. Unless you wash each item thoroughly, you'll inevitably end up with chemical substances. Opting for natural insecticides will not only get rid of fruit flies, but also, thanks to the composition of our products and their low persistence, ensure that you can continue to live in a healthy environment.

Read all our advice and discover all our products to combat fruit flies naturally : Fruit flies file