When should single-use gloves be changed during food preparation?

Changing single-use gloves after handling raw foods or if they become soiled is critical for food safety. This practice helps to prevent cross-contamination, which can occur when bacteria from raw foods, such as meat or poultry, come into contact with ready-to-eat foods or surfaces. By changing gloves after handling raw foods, food workers significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Additionally, gloves that become soiled during food preparation can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens, making it necessary to switch to a clean pair to maintain sanitary conditions. This is particularly important in a busy kitchen environment where the risk of contamination increases with various food items and preparation tasks.

While other practices like changing gloves after 30 minutes or only upon customer request might seem reasonable, they do not take into account the immediate risk factors associated with raw foods and contamination. Thus, ensuring gloves are changed at the right times is a fundamental practice in maintaining food safety and hygiene in food preparation areas.