Top 26 Food Gloves for 2025: Safety & Hygiene in the Kitchen

If you’ve ever worked in food service, you’ll appreciate having the best food-handling gloves to protect yourself and your customers.

The best disposable food gloves have a protective plastic or rubber material that is water-proof and won’t tear doing everyday cooking and food preparation.

Find the best gloves below and stay safe and protected in your home or commercial kitchen.

Our buying guide answers the most commonly asked questions.

We have you covered if you need cut-resistant, plastic, or rubber gloves.

Best Food Handling Gloves

1. Disposable Food Service Gloves, Plastic Food Safe Polyethylene, 1.25 mil, One Size Fits Most

These Disposable Food Service Gloves offer reliable protection for less than a penny – talk about a bargain!

Duraskin Polyethylene Food Handling Gloves are designed for fast-paced food service applications.

The Polyethylene gloves are 1.25mil thick, making them inexpensive for deli owners and other food preparation staff to dispose of immediately after each use. Each glove costs less than a penny. Talk about a bargain!

These single-use gloves are 100% recyclable, FDA Approved for food handling, and liquid-proof. You won’t leave behind any residue on your hands.

Key features:

• Loose fit, one size fits most, and you can easily take them on and off
• 100% Food Safe – meets or exceeds USDA Standards
• 100% Recyclable polyethylene material
• Embossed grip to complete tasks effectively, perfect for deli counters and made-to-order foodstuffs
• Ideal material for light tasks requiring frequent glove changes

2. Duraskin Blue Nitrile Gloves, 3.5 mil

There are many reasons DuraSkin T2010W is our top pick and our second-best food-grade disposable glove.

Its 3.5-millimeter thick nitrile is the ideal balance between cost and effectiveness across applications. Most importantly, it is USDA-approved for food processing industrial applications.

It is more expensive than vinyl or polyethylene alternatives, but it makes up for that by providing dependable protection.

The Duraskin LT2010W Nitrile Glove is the ideal balance between cost, quality, and effectiveness for most food applications.

Key Features:

• 100% Latex Free, Powder-Free
• 3.5mil Thickness is 3x thicker than generic plastic gloves alternatives
• Textured Fingertips improve grip
• Wholesale Pricing on Cases of 1000
• Extra strong nitrile rubber
• Multi-purpose use for food handling, household, and commercial tasks

3. Grabber Orange Nitrile Gloves, 6.0 mil

Do you need heavy-duty, industrial-grade gloves? If you need to ensure that your gloves won’t rip or tear under stress, get Grabber Orange Nitrile Gloves.

These gloves are 6.0 mil thick, so they can withstand commercial food handling and preparation. And their synthetic nitrile rubber won’t inflame allergies.

It is easily visible in low light conditions and cleaning staff like them for use within tight spaces. The material protects against solvents and disinfectant products.

Food manufacturing facilities trust Grabber for consistent quality. USDA approved all food handling applications; Grabber Nitrile gloves get the job done.

You won’t need to throw away gloves because they rip trying to put them on. Grabber gloves withstand stress.

Key Features:

• Heavy duty 6.0 mil thick industrial grade nitrile rubber
• Highly visible color loved by bakers and kitchen staff
• 100% Powder-Free, Latex-Free
• The diamond grip allows for a precise grip

4. Duraskin Extra-Thick 8.0 mil Blue Nitrile Gloves

If your current rubber gloves seem to rip and tear too quickly, your application may require Duraskin 2018W Nitrile Gloves. Their extra thick 8.0-millimeter-thick nitrile rubber is less likely to tear.

All disposable gloves are ambidextrous, and these Duraskin gloves are no different. In boxes of 50 and cases of 500, this nitrile pull-on closure gloves measure 9.5 inches from fingertip to cuff. 

These gloves are FDA Approved for food handling and industrial grade with excellent elasticity, and chemical, puncture, and abrasion resistance. Nitrile, in general, rivals latex’s comfort. The extra thickness of these gloves does not stress the hands. 100% Latex Free is ideal for those with allergies.

Most of the gloves on this list are nitrile for a reason. Nitrile is ideal for food handlers and automotive and industrial workers.

Key features:

• 8.0 mil industrial-grade nitrile rubber
• 100% Powder Free and Latex-Free
• Ambidextrous
• Micro-textured fingertips
• Competitive Pricing

5. X-Grip® Cut Resistant Polyurethane Coated Glove 

X-Grip® Gray Polyurethane Palm Coated Gloves protect against light-duty cuts and abrasions common in residential kitchens. Its salt and pepper shell maintains its look and protection through multiple washes.

Yep, it’s machine washable without losing its high tensile strength and comfortable fit. Its soft fibers are flexible to the touch while protecting against low-risk cuts. With sizes from small to double extra large, you’ll be sure to find your fit.

You can experience endless possibilities with x-grip gloves: gardening, kitchen, and shop activities. Easily wash these ambidextrous gloves after each use without causing damage. Try out X-Grip® today.

X-Grip® gloves provide level 2 protection at a fraction of the cost of other gloves. You won’t find better protection at this price point. 

Key features:

• Reusable cut-resistant gloves provide level 2 ANSI-certified protection
• Coating provides protection from common household and cleaning chemicals
• Palm coating maximizes grip in wet conditions
• Suitable for household use. Not FDA-approved for food handling in commercial settings

6. Duraskin BlackSheild Nitrile Food Handling Gloves

Duraskin black nitrile food handling gloves have micro-roughened and textured fingertips to maximize grip strength, dexterity, and comfort.

These industrial-grade, USDA-approved gloves offer the chemical and puncture resistance you expect from nitrile. The black color is loved by tattoo artists because they hide dirt, grease, and grime. 

Nitrile has an excellent fit and feel. 4.0 millimeter thick gloves are suitable for light to medium-duty tasks and double donning. Powder-free and latex-free, you can check the current pricing on boxes of 100. 

Tattoos, food prep, automotive, and industrial settings are suitable for DuraSkin black nitrile gloves. These ambidextrous micro-textured gloves will work well with basic tasks, whether at home or the shop.

Key features:

• Perfect for food preparation
• Ambidextrous
• 100% Powder-Free, Latex-Free
• FDA Approved for Food Handling

6. Raven Nitrile Medical Gloves

These extra-thick Raven Gloves offer dependable protection in heavy-duty activities. Nitrile provides outstanding strength and durability with reliable chemical resistance.

Raven gloves are certified medical grade and meet FDA requirements. And the rubber is certified ASTM D6978 for additional peace of mind. Raven gloves come in boxes of 100 or cases of 1000.

Get a precise grip in all work environments. Nitrile naturally resists degradation when exposed to chemicals commonly found in automotive shops.

Key features:

• Textured fingertips for precise tasks
• 6.0 mil thick rubber
• 100% Powder-Free, Latex-Free
• Dependable chemical resistance
• Certified Safe for Food Handling

7. Duraskin 2810W Latex Food Gloves

Duraskin 2810W Latex Gloves balance cost, durability, and comfort. It is designed to remain comfortable during extended shifts, which is ideal for food processing workers.

The natural latex rubber conforms to the grooves of each wearer’s hands, and thanks to its 5.0 mil thickness, the glove will last extended periods. Duraskin is a trusted brand, and its latex rubber meets or exceeds USDA standards.

The natural white color is ideal for double donning, the process in which the wearer uses two gloves. The first base layer is white, and the second is blue or orange. When the second glove is pierced, it alerts the wearer while maintaining protection. Double donning effectively keeps out pathogens in high-risk settings.

Key features:

• Durable latex rubber is suitable for light and medium-duty tasks
• Very comfortable, many consider latex to be the most comfortable disposable food handling glove option because of how it conforms to the hand
• Perfect for double gloving, i.e. using white latex gloves as a base layer
• 15% more cost-effective than nitrile alternatives

8. Restore Sense Green Nitrile Exam Gloves with maxOat+

Exam gloves with MaxOat+ colloidal oatmeal can help retain natural moisture and soothe skin. The National Eczema Association has awarded the Seal of Acceptance to Restore gloves.

Prevent skin irritation and help heal damaged skin by using gloves made with colloidal oatmeal.

These medical-grade gloves are loved by customers. Many benefit from the soothing nitrile rubber when doing household kitchen and cleaning tasks.

Key features:

• Durable nitrile rubber suitable for kitchen tasks
• Prevents skin irritation
• Trusted brand
• Approved for Food Handling and Preparation activities

9. Aloetouch 3G Vinyl Exam Glove

Aloetouch 3G Vinyl Exam Gloves prioritize comfort and skin health alongside reliable hand protection. These 5.5 mil thick vinyl gloves are powder-free and feature a unique aloe vera coating on the inner surface. This soothing aloe coating helps to keep hands hydrated and comfortable, even during extended wear, making them ideal for users who experience skin sensitivity or dryness with standard gloves.

While offering enhanced comfort, Aloetouch 3G gloves maintain exam-grade quality and barrier protection suitable for various tasks. The 5.5 mil thickness provides increased durability compared to thinner vinyl gloves, and the powder-free design minimizes the risk of allergic reactions and contamination. Packaged in boxes of 100, they offer a practical and skin-friendly hand protection solution.

• More cost-effective than nitrile alternatives

10. Astro-Grip Orange Nitrile Food Gloves

Astro-Grip Gloves by SAS Safety Corp. are highly functional for food handling tasks. The 7.0 mil nitrile rubber is suitable for heavy-duty tasks and is resistant to tears, abrasions, and cuts.

If you want a highly visible color, then these orange gloves are an excellent choice. SAS Safety Corp. is the company behind Raven, Chem Defender, and Thickster gloves.

11. Duraskin 2011W Chloroprene Food Handling Gloves

DuraSkin 2011W Chloroprene Gloves combine latex comfort with the chemical resistance and durability of nitrile – all while being 100% latex free. Chloroprene is a synthetic rubber called Neoprene that conforms well to the user’s hand without irritation.

These gloves hold up well against organic acids or alkalis, hydrogen peroxide, organic solvents, and biological additives commonly found in the plumbing and septic business.

Although it is rare to see chloroprene gloves used at a deli, give it a try! Duraskin 2011W Chloroprene gloves are loved by those who can’t wear latex gloves but want the comfort and feel of latex rubber. The material naturally conforms to your hand despite being synthetic material.

12. Duraskin Orange Nitrile Gloves, 8.0 mil Extra Thick, Food Grade

These Duraskin 2028HO gloves are made of 8.0-millimeter extra thick nitrile, making them suitable for advanced industrial applications that involve heavy-duty work over extended

13. Duraskin Orange Nitrile Gloves, 8.0 mil Extra Thick, Food Grade

These Duraskin 2028HO gloves are constructed from an 8.0-millimeter extra-thick nitrile, making them ideally suited for demanding industrial tasks that require robust hand protection over long durations.

Their high-visibility safety orange color is coupled with a powder-free and latex-free composition, enhancing both safety and comfort. Duraskin’s manufacturing process emphasizes strength, tear resistance, and product consistency, ensuring reliable performance in every glove.

While these gloves are built for heavy-duty use, they are especially recommended for sectors such as automotive, emergency response, correctional and law enforcement, and demanding laboratory and industrial applications where maximum hand protection is crucial.

14. HexArmor® SharpsMaster II Latex Coated Gloves

HexArmor® Sharpsmaster II Latex Coated Gloves offer the highest level of cut resistance available, meeting ANSI and ISEA standards with a level 9 rating. These gloves are engineered for rigorous, industrial-grade food processing environments, providing unmatched protection for butchers, oyster shuckers, and cooks who handle sharp tools in repetitive, high-risk tasks.

The rubber latex coating maximizes grip in both dry and oily conditions while providing a liquid-proof barrier against toxic chemicals. Additionally, the ActiFresh™ palm coating naturally combats microbial growth, enhancing hygiene. These gloves also boast ANSI/ISEA Level 5 protection against abrasions, ensuring comprehensive hand safety.

As the toughest gloves Harmony offers, the Sharpsmaster II is a top choice for cut resistance. They feature an elastic cuff to seal out dirt and debris, providing ultimate hand protection against cuts, tears, and workplace hazards.

15. Thickerster Latex Food Gloves

For those seeking maximum thickness in disposable gloves, Thickster Latex gloves are the answer. These ultra-thick 14 mil gloves are significantly more robust, being 2 to 3 times thicker than standard disposable gloves.

Despite their enhanced thickness, the latex material maintains excellent dexterity, allowing for precise hand movements. Many users find latex rubber to be the most comfortable material for disposable gloves, making Thickster gloves ideal for extended use without sacrificing comfort or protection.

16. ChemDefender Chloroprene Disposable Food Grade Gloves

SAS Safety Corp. 66593 ChemDefender Chloroprene Gloves are exam-grade, synthetic rubber gloves offering a superior combination of comfort, strength, and chemical resistance. Constructed from chloroprene, these gloves provide a robust barrier protection suitable for demanding tasks.

The elasticity of chloroprene exceeds that of standard nitrile gloves and rivals that of latex, providing a flexible yet resilient glove option.

ChemDefender® Gloves are manufactured by SAS Safety Corp., experts in disposable hand protection, ensuring a high-quality, powder-free, single-use examination-grade solution.

17. Raven Hi-Viz Nitrile Gloves

Similar to latex in feel but made entirely without latex proteins, Raven Hi-Viz Nitrile Gloves are an excellent choice for those with latex sensitivities. These gloves are not only food-safe but also feature a high-visibility color for enhanced safety compliance.

Manufactured by Raven, a trusted brand in safety equipment, these food gloves are highly regarded by users for their reliability and performance in food handling and processing.

18. Duraskin 8.0 mil Food Gloves, Extended 12″ Cuff

Duraskin 2022W 12″ Blue Nitrile Gloves are designed with an extended 12″ cuff, offering 2.5 inches more length than standard nitrile gloves. This additional length allows the gloves to be effectively tucked under sleeves or coveralls, providing extra protection against liquids, dust, and debris from entering inside the glove.

The 8.0 mil thick nitrile construction is 100% latex-free and powder-free, making them suitable for medium to heavy-duty industrial applications. These DuraSkin gloves are USDA-approved for food handling, ensuring they meet stringent safety and hygiene standards.

These gloves are simply a formidable option for comprehensive hand and forearm protection. The synthetic nitrile material is comfortable and provides broad chemical resistance, while the extended cuff offers about 30% more protective coverage compared to standard 9.5″ gloves. Food processing facilities can particularly benefit from the enhanced protection offered by Duraskin LIB2022W.

19. Intco Diamond Textured Nitrile Gloves

Intco Diamond Textured Nitrile Gloves redefine grip and heavy-duty hand protection. Featuring a unique Mega Texture diamond pattern, these 8.0 mil black nitrile gloves provide an exceptional, unwavering grip, even in wet, oily, or dry conditions. This specialized texture channels away liquids, ensuring confident handling in demanding tasks across mechanic work, janitorial services, plumbing, painting, manufacturing and more.

These industrial-grade gloves offer robust protection, resisting punctures, tears, and a range of chemicals commonly found in industrial settings. Constructed from thick 8.0 mil nitrile, they are also food safe, powder-free, and latex-free, making them a versatile and safe choice for various applications, from rigorous professional jobs to household tasks where a superior grip and reliable defense are needed.

20. Green Nitrile 13″ Flock Lined Gloves

Liberty Glove’s 13″ Green Nitrile Flock Lined 2970C gloves are designed to be thicker and longer, providing enhanced resistance to a broad spectrum of solvents, animal fats, and other liquids. The flock lining adds an extra layer of comfort and moisture absorption, ideal for extended wear.

Embossed fingertips ensure a secure grip, facilitating precision tasks in both medium and heavy-duty applications. These gloves are available in packs of a dozen pairs, and sizing ranges from small to double extra large to accommodate various hand sizes comfortably.

21. Duraskin Vinyl Food Handling Gloves

Duraskin 2910W Vinyl Gloves offer an upgrade in thickness, being 15% thicker than the T2910W model. Constructed from vinyl, a synthetic, 100% latex-free material, these gloves are easy to don and doff thanks to their smooth finish.

The 4.0-millimeter-thick clear vinyl material is packaged in boxes of 100, providing a practical quantity for regular use. With improved puncture and tear resistance compared to polyethylene, these plastic gloves are robust enough for light to medium-duty tasks in kitchen environments.

Duraskin 2910W gloves are designed to be ambidextrous and multi-purpose, making them excellent for food service, general cleaning, food preparation, and various household tasks.

Vinyl plastic acts as an effective barrier against liquids and offers mild chemical resistance. Importantly, odors are less likely to permeate through vinyl, meaning you can handle strong-smelling foods like garlic without the scent lingering on your hands.

22. Polyurethane Coated HPPE Gloves – Level 4 Cut Resistance

Liberty Glove’s Polyurethane Coated HPPE Gloves are specifically engineered to provide superior protection against cuts and abrasions. Their excellent abrasion resistance makes them highly suitable for both kitchen and gardening tasks.

HPPE gloves are expertly machine-knitted and woven with high-performance polyethylene (HPPE) fibers, enhancing hand protection while maintaining dexterity. Liberty Glove is known for producing work gloves that offer high tensile strength yet remain lightweight and breathable, ensuring user comfort during extended wear.

With a Level 4 cut resistance rating, these gloves are ideal for medium-duty tasks, making them versatile for various applications including woodworking, carpentry, HVAC work, fishing, resin handling, and warehouse duties.

Cleanup is simple as these gloves are machine washable, proving their durability and longevity even after multiple washes.

23. Duraskin Natural White Latex Rubber Gloves

Duraskin T2810W 3.5 mil Thick Powder Free Latex Gloves are designed to be safe for food service applications and comfortable for use throughout long work shifts. The natural latex rubber construction provides a comfortable fit appreciated by bakers, cake decorators, and hobbyists alike. These gloves are a great choice for both commercial and home use.

These gloves are non-sterile, making them appropriate for food service and general-purpose tasks. Duraskin gloves offer a dependable barrier against liquids, grime, and potential food-borne contaminants. The textured fingertips ensure a secure grip, enhancing safety and efficiency in handling tasks.

24. Duraskin Blue Vinyl Food Gloves

DuraSkin Blue Vinyl Gloves are a cost-effective solution for food service needs, offering improved durability over standard polyethylene plastic gloves. Made from 4.0-millimeter thick vinyl, they are well-suited for light to medium-duty tasks in food service environments.

These gloves excel in tasks like sandwich and salad preparation, as well as custom food orders. For any application requiring frequent glove changes, vinyl gloves provide a practical and economical option.

They are 100% powder-free and latex-free, enhancing comfort for users with dermatitis or sensitive skin conditions.

25. Duraskin Chloroprene Gloves, Extended 12″ Cuff

DuraSkin 12″ Green Chloroprene Gloves come with an extended 12″ cuff, providing extra assurance that liquids, dust, and debris will not get under your sleeves. The extended cuff design allows these chloroprene gloves to be easily tucked under sleeves or coveralls for maximum protection.

Chloroprene is favored for cleaning tasks due to its exceptional chemical resistance, making these gloves versatile for a wide range of jobs beyond just food handling. They are also suitable for auto and bike mechanics, tattoo artists, hair salon professionals, painting and hobby work, grilling, food preparation, gardening, and more.

Chloroprene offers the comfort and tactile sensitivity similar to natural rubber but is completely 100% latex and powder-free. DuraSkin Chloroprene gloves are comfortable for extended wear, whether you're engaged in household cleaning or detailed tasks like hair coloring. Consider these gloves for reliable hand protection in various demanding activities.

26. Duraskin 4.0 mil Vinyl Food Gloves (Powdered)

DuraSkin 4.0 mil Vinyl Food Service Gloves are designed for easy and quick donning, ideal for busy food service environments where time is of the essence. These gloves are made without natural rubber, are 100% latex-free, and feature an ambidextrous design for convenience.

The inclusion of powder inside the gloves makes them exceptionally easy to slip on, even when hands are slightly damp. This feature is particularly beneficial for fast-paced operations where efficiency is key.

While offering easy donning, these gloves still provide a reliable barrier for food service tasks, ensuring hygiene and safety standards are met. They are a practical choice for operations that prioritize speed and ease of use in disposable gloves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the different types of food gloves and their uses?

Food gloves come in various materials, each suited for different tasks:

• Plastic/Polyethylene: Best for light-duty tasks, quick changes, and cost-effectiveness (e.g., deli counters, sandwich making).
• Vinyl: Good for general food handling, latex-free alternative, more durable than plastic, suitable for light to medium-duty tasks.
• Latex: Offers excellent dexterity and comfort, good for general food prep, but potential allergen.
• Nitrile: Durable, chemical-resistant, latex-free, suitable for medium to heavy-duty tasks, and those with latex allergies. A popular all-around choice.
• Chloroprene: Combines latex-like comfort with nitrile-like chemical resistance, latex-free. Good for those with sensitivities who need more robust protection.
• Cut-Resistant: Made from materials like HPPE, designed to protect against cuts from knives and sharp tools, ideal for butchering, oyster shucking, and tasks with high cut risks.

How do I choose the right size food glove?

Glove size is crucial for both safety and dexterity. Most brands offer size charts (check product packaging or websites). Generally, you'll measure your palm circumference and hand length to find your size (Small, Medium, Large, XL, etc.). A snug but comfortable fit is ideal. Gloves that are too large can be clumsy, while gloves that are too small can tear easily and restrict movement.

Are food gloves reusable or disposable?

Most food gloves are disposable, designed for single-use to prevent cross-contamination. Plastic, vinyl, nitrile, and latex gloves in this list are primarily disposable. However, some thicker, cut-resistant gloves (like X-Grip® and some HPPE gloves) are reusable and washable, intended for longer-term use and cut protection.

How do I properly dispose of food gloves?

Disposable food gloves should be discarded in appropriate trash receptacles after each use. For hygiene and safety, remove gloves properly (avoid touching the outer surface with bare hands) and wash hands thoroughly after glove removal. Check local regulations for specific disposal guidelines, especially for commercial settings.

What are the FDA/USDA regulations for food gloves?

In the US, food gloves that are intended to come into contact with food must be FDA-compliant and meet specific standards for food safety. Look for gloves that are labeled as "FDA Approved for Food Handling" or "USDA Compliant." These regulations ensure the gloves are made from materials that are safe for food contact and won't contaminate food products.

Are nitrile gloves better than latex gloves for food handling?

Nitrile gloves are often considered superior to latex for food handling for several reasons:

• Latex-Free: Nitrile is synthetic and doesn't contain natural rubber latex, eliminating allergy risks for latex-sensitive individuals.
• Durability & Chemical Resistance: Nitrile is generally more puncture-resistant and offers better chemical resistance than latex and vinyl.
• Food Safety: Both latex and nitrile gloves can be food-safe, but nitrile's robustness makes it a preferred choice in many commercial settings for enhanced protection.

Latex gloves are often more cost-effective and offer good dexterity, but nitrile is gaining popularity as a versatile and safer alternative, especially in professional kitchens.

Can I use food gloves for cleaning too?

Yes, many food gloves, particularly nitrile and chloroprene, can be suitable for light cleaning tasks, offering protection from mild cleaning chemicals and general grime. However, for heavy-duty cleaning with harsh chemicals, specialized cleaning gloves designed for chemical resistance and durability are recommended over standard food gloves.

What are the benefits of powder-free gloves?

Powder-free gloves are generally preferred in food service and many other applications because:

• Reduced Allergenicity: Powder (often cornstarch) in powdered gloves can be a source of allergens and skin irritation for some individuals. Powder-free gloves eliminate this risk.
• Reduced Contamination: Powder can transfer to food or surfaces, posing a contamination risk in food handling and sensitive environments. Powder-free gloves prevent this.
• Cleaner Environment: Powder can make a mess and leave residue. Powder-free gloves contribute to a cleaner and more hygienic workspace.

For food handling, powder-free gloves are almost always the recommended and often required choice.

Conclusion

Choosing the right food gloves for 2025 is an investment in safety, hygiene, and efficiency, whether you're a professional chef or a passionate home cook. From cost-effective plastic gloves for quick tasks to heavy-duty, cut-resistant options for demanding environments, the market offers a diverse range of solutions to meet every need and budget.

We hope this guide to the 26 best food gloves has equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Explore the options, consider your specific requirements, and prioritize gloves that provide the best combination of protection, comfort, and value for your kitchen.

Stay safe, cook confidently, and ensure a hygienic environment for yourself and those you serve! Ready to upgrade your kitchen safety?

Browse our top picks and find the perfect food gloves for 2025 today!