What is a required step when using gloves in food preparation?

When using gloves in food preparation, washing hands before putting on gloves is an essential step in maintaining food safety. This practice ensures that any contaminants on your hands are removed, thereby preventing the transfer of harmful bacteria or viruses to the food. Gloves can provide a barrier between hands and food, but if the hands are not clean before donning the gloves, this barrier is compromised.

Proper handwashing before wearing gloves is crucial because it helps to maintain hygiene standards in food preparation environments. It effectively minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, which is a significant concern in food safety practices. While gloves can help reduce direct contact, they are not a substitute for proper handwashing.

The other options do not support safe food practices. Changing gloves every hour, for instance, is not a standard requirement and may lead to unnecessary waste. Additionally, not washing hands before using gloves contradicts food safety protocols. Lastly, limiting glove use to times when one feels sick does not address the overall need for hygiene in food handling.