Which of the following best describes the purpose of wearing gloves in food service?

Wearing gloves in food service primarily serves the important purpose of preventing cross-contamination. This is crucial as it helps protect food from harmful bacteria and allergens that may be present on hands, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. By using gloves, food service workers can create a barrier between their hands and the food, ensuring that any contaminants are not transferred, thus maintaining food safety standards.

The focus on cross-contamination is imperative in food handling practices, as it emphasizes the importance of hygiene and safe food preparation. This practice is reinforced by health regulations and training protocols in the food industry, ensuring that workers are aware of the risks associated with handling food directly with bare hands.