What type of gloves should food handlers use when preparing food?

Food handlers should use single-use disposable gloves when preparing food to maintain food safety and hygiene. These gloves are designed for one-time use and are crucial in preventing cross-contamination, which can occur when handling raw foods and then touching ready-to-eat foods. Disposable gloves are typically made from materials like polyethylene or nitrile, which are effective barriers against bacteria and contaminants.

Using single-use gloves helps ensure that any pathogens or allergens from one food item do not transfer to another, helping to protect customers from foodborne illnesses. They are also convenient, as they can be easily discarded after use, reducing the risk of contamination that might arise from cleaning and reusing other types of gloves.

Other options, such as reusable cloth gloves, are not ideal for food handling because they can harbor bacteria and should not be worn in food preparation areas where hygiene is critical. Rubber gloves may not provide the same level of hygiene and could also lead to cross-contamination if reused. Latex gloves can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, which makes them less preferable in food service environments. Therefore, using single-use disposable gloves is the best choice for food handlers.