What is the primary reason for using gloves when handling food?

Using gloves when handling food serves the primary purpose of preventing contamination. Foodborne illnesses often arise from pathogens or harmful substances that can be transferred from hands to food during food preparation. When food workers wear gloves, they create a barrier that significantly reduces the risk of these harmful microorganisms coming into contact with the food, thereby ensuring food safety.

Gloves are especially important when handling ready-to-eat foods that will not be cooked before consumption. This measure helps maintain hygiene standards in food service environments, protecting both the food and the consumers.

While making food look attractive or protecting food from spills may seem relevant, these reasons do not address the critical health concern of contamination. Similarly, increasing food temperature quickly does not relate to the primary reason for glove use and can introduce risks if not managed correctly, such as promoting rapid bacterial growth if food is not handled properly. Thus, the focus on preventing contamination highlights the essential role of gloves in maintaining food safety.