Bartenders call for ‘glove law’ exemption

Bartenders in California have launched a petition against a new law which could require them to wear disposable gloves at work.

Bartenders working in California have launched a petition against a new food safety law

Launched through change.org, the petition calls to exempt bartenders from the recently revised California Retail Food Code which prohibits bare-handed contact with ready-to-eat food in bars and restaurant.

Under the revised law, bartenders could be forced to wear disposable gloves or use other utensils to garnish their drinks.

The petition was started by Alameda bartender Josh Miller, who criticised the law for its “ridiculous unintended consequences”.

He added: “While I’m sure the state legislature had our best interests in mind when they created this law, I am equally sure they were not attempting to protect us from bartenders smacking a sprig of mint with their bare hands or expressing the oil of an orange twist above a cocktail.”

The code was tweaked following the bid by California Governor Jerry Brown to combat food-borne illnesses in the state.

Bars and restaurants can apply for an exemption to the legislation if strict requirements are adhered to.

Bartenders wishing to lend their support to the campaign are asked to write to California’s Committee on Health chairman Dr David Pan.