How often should gloves be inspected for wear and tear during food preparation?

Gloves should be inspected for wear and tear every time they are reused to ensure the safety and integrity of food handling processes. This practice is vital because compromised gloves can harbor bacteria or contaminants that may transfer to food items, posing a risk to customer health. By checking gloves before each reuse, staff can identify any holes, tears, or degradation that could compromise their barrier function.

While periodic checks throughout shifts can be beneficial, the standard practice for food safety emphasizes that gloves should be evaluated immediately before they come into contact with food again. This helps maintain the highest hygiene standards and complies with food safety regulations that aim to prevent cross-contamination during food preparation.