Illinois has a new law banning latex glove use for food preparation.
Effective January 1, 2023, all foodservice operations are required to discontinue use of latex gloves. Latex may only be used if a supply interruption exists for latex alternatives, leaving latex gloves as the only option. Establishments using latex gloves in this scenario must post a sign in a prominent location at the point of sale communicating the use of latex gloves in the food establishment.
Looking for latex alternatives? Non-latex gloves include those made from vinyl, nitrile, neoprene, polyisoprene, TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and blends of these materials. Alternative barriers to bare hand contact may be used, such as deli sheets, tongs and other utensils if bare hand contact with food can be avoided. As a reminder, glove and barrier usage is never a replacement for handwashing and any type of glove or barrier should be changed when it becomes contaminated or after four hours of continuous use.
What is the penalty for noncompliance? To encourage compliance with the new law, the first violation will result in a warning letter. Subsequent violations may be subject to fines. Contact your local health department with questions regarding the enforcement of this new law.
