When should food service workers change their gloves?

Changing gloves when switching from raw to cooked foods is essential for preventing cross-contamination. Raw foods, particularly meats, can harbor harmful pathogens that can contaminate ready-to-eat foods if proper precautions aren't taken. By changing gloves when transitioning between handling raw and cooked items, food service workers protect the health of consumers and maintain food safety standards. This practice helps ensure that any bacteria or contaminants from raw foods do not come into contact with foods that are ready to be served.

In food safety protocols, changing gloves at appropriate times is crucial to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. While tearing gloves, finishing a meal, or changing gloves every 30 minutes may seem relevant, they do not address the critical need for preventing cross-contamination that occurs specifically between raw and cooked food handling.