What is the correct way to use gloves in food preparation?

Using gloves in food preparation serves primarily as a means to protect food from contamination. When food workers wear gloves, they create a barrier between their hands and the food, which helps reduce the risk of transferring pathogens or allergens. This practice is particularly important when handling ready-to-eat foods, where any contamination can have serious health implications for consumers.

It's essential to note that while gloves can help prevent contamination, they do not replace the necessity for handwashing. Workers must wash their hands thoroughly before putting on gloves and also when switching between different tasks or types of food, especially after handling raw food. This ensures that any contaminants present on their hands are removed, maintaining food safety standards.

Also, gloves should not be used exclusively for handling raw food; they should be used broadly in food preparation to help ensure cleanliness and safety throughout the food handling process. The notion of gloves being a fashion statement is entirely misguided; their purpose is strictly functional to enhance food safety during preparation processes.