The only specific reference to gloves in
Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) is Section 110.10 (b) (5), which
states, "If gloves are used in food
handling, maintain them in an intact,
clean, sanitary condition…." However, the
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has
informed us that Section 110.10 (b) (5)
does not preclude gloves from being
regulated as indirect food additives. FDA
has also advised us that all glove
components (fibers, fiber finishes, rubber,
etc.) must comply with provisions of the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA)
which allow repeated use in direct contact
with food.
Although gloves must comply with the FFDCA,
there is no regulatory requirement for
prior review and approval by any central
USDA authority. The supplier’s assurance of
compliance with the FFDCA is sufficient to
allow their use in USDA inspected
establishments. All authorization
letters that were previously issued by
USDA, for gloves, are void. There
are no USDA approved gloves..
Light colored rubber or plastic gloves may
be worn by product handlers, provided the
gloves are clean and in good repair. Of
course, the performance of the gloves must
be satisfactory to the Inspector-In-Charge
at the establishment.
For further information, please contact us at
Area Code (202) 205-0279 or (202) 205-0623.
Last Modified:
October 17, 2007
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