Yes, nitrile gloves are considered safe for food handling, provided they are specifically labeled as "food grade" and meet relevant regulatory standards such as FDA or EN 1186 certifications.

What Makes Nitrile Gloves Food Safe?

• "Food grade" nitrile gloves are manufactured to meet strict standards set by regulatory bodies (such as the FDA 21 CFR 177.2600), ensuring they do not leach harmful chemicals or powders into food.

• They are free from latex proteins, making them hypoallergenic and safer for those with latex sensitivities.

• Certified gloves should explicitly state approval for food handling on their packaging or documentation.

Important Considerations

• Always choose nitrile gloves labeled as "food safe" or "food grade," as industrial-grade gloves may contain unsafe additives not intended for food contact.

• Powder-free nitrile gloves are generally preferred in food operations to avoid contaminant transfer from glove powders.

• Frequently change gloves to prevent cross-contamination, especially when switching between different types of foods.

Recommendations

• Look for certifications such as FDA (U.S.), EN 1186 (Europe), or HACCP approval on nitrile glove packaging for food handling purposes.

• Brightly colored nitrile gloves (like blue) are often used in the food industry so torn glove fragments can be easily seen and removed from food, adding another safety layer.

In summary, nitrile gloves are a safe and widely preferred choice for food handling, as long as they are specifically certified for food contact.