California eFoodHandlers Practice Exam

Which type of gloves should be used in food preparation?

1. Reusable cloth gloves

2. Food-safe disposable gloves

3. Any household gloves

4. Rubber kitchen gloves

The correct answer is: Food-safe disposable gloves

Food-safe disposable gloves are specifically designed for food preparation and handling, making them the most appropriate choice for ensuring food safety. These gloves are made from materials that are safe for contact with food and are designed to be used only once, significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination between different food items or between food and contaminants from the wearer's hands. Using disposable gloves helps prevent direct contact with food, which is crucial in maintaining hygiene standards in food handling. When changing tasks, it’s important to replace disposable gloves to minimize the risk of transferring bacteria or allergens. In contrast, reusable cloth gloves may harbor bacteria or food particles even after washing, making them impractical for food preparation. Household gloves are generally not made from materials designated as safe for food contact and may also have residues from cleaning products or other contaminants. Rubber kitchen gloves are often not designed for food handling and can be unsafe if they contain materials that can leach harmful substances into food. Overall, food-safe disposable gloves are the best option to safeguard the food preparation process and maintain public health standards in food service.