When should food handlers wear gloves?

Food handlers should wear gloves when directly handling ready-to-eat foods to prevent contamination. Ready-to-eat foods are those that are not cooked or otherwise processed before consumption, such as salads, sandwiches, or bakery items. By wearing gloves, food handlers create a barrier between their hands and the food, which reduces the risk of transferring pathogens or contaminants that can lead to foodborne illnesses.

This practice aligns with food safety guidelines that emphasize minimizing direct contact between hands and food to ensure the health and safety of customers. Gloves should be changed regularly, especially when switching tasks, to maintain hygiene standards. While cleaning the kitchen, serving food to customers, or washing dishes can involve different safety protocols, the specific requirement for glove use is particularly emphasized when handling ready-to-eat foods, as the risk of contamination is significantly higher.