What are the rules for using gloves in food prep?

There currently are no requirements for glove use in food service establishments, but, a “no bare hands” policy is recommended for handling ready-to-eat foods (e.g. sandwiches, salads). Gloves and utensils (such as tongs) can be used to minimize bare hand contact of food.

Do cooks have to wear gloves when preparing food?

A California law (Section 113961 of the California Retail Food Code) that went into effect on January 1, 2014 prevents restaurant workers in the state from handling ready-to-eat food.

Why is it important to wear gloves when handling food?

Wearing gloves can reduce the risk of contaminating food, but only when they are worn and changed properly. Gloves must be changed at least every four hours, when returning to work after a break, and when switching tasks. Glove use alone cannot stop the spread of pathogens. Food workers must also wash their hands.

Are you required to wear gloves when handling food?

The FDA Food Code, upon which local food codes are based, requires that gloves be used when handling any ready-to-eat (RTE) foods. Because gloves provide a barrier between hands and food, they are an extra layer of protection for those foods that are eaten without cooking.

What must food handlers do before putting on single-use gloves?

Wash hands before putting gloves on when starting a new task. Select the correct glove size. Hold gloves by the edge when putting them on. Once gloves are on, check for rips or tears.

Can you use latex gloves in food prep?

Polyethylene, latex, vinyl, and nitrile are all appropriate materials for food prep gloves. These types of gloves also have great tactile sensitivity and puncture resistance. Powder-free white latex gloves are good for single-use tasks in food service.

When should gloves be worn in the kitchen?

They should be used when handling ready- to-eat food. The exceptions include when washing produce, or when handling ready-to-eat ingredients for a dish that will be cooked to the correct internal temperature. Gloves must never be used in place of handwashing.

Why should gloves be worn when preparing sandwiches?

Single-use gloves are used in foodservice for two primary reasons: To serve as a barrier between ready-to-eat food and bare skin contact. To reduce the risk of cross-contamination in which, for example, raw meat juices on hands are not thoroughly washed off before changing tasks to make a sandwich.

When should you change food handling gloves?

Always change your gloves:

1. between handling ready-to-eat and raw food.
2. if the gloves tear.
3. between different tasks.
4. after taking the rubbish out.
5. after sweeping, mopping and cleaning.
6. after taking money or providing change to a customer.

When using single use gloves you are required to?

The only time you are required to wear a single-use glove is if you have any cuts, scrapes, or burns on your hand. You may also choose to wear single-use gloves to avoid bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.