US bartenders could be made to wear gloves

Bartenders working in California could be forced to wear gloves or use other utensils garnish their drinks under a new food safety law.

California bartenders have criticised a reviewed law which could require them to wear gloves

Following changes to the California Retail Food Code, workers at California-based bars have expressed concern that they may be required to wear disposable gloves or use other utensils to handle ingredients.

The Los Angeles Times reported that the reviewed legislation has been met with widespread opposition by chefs and bartenders in the area.

Angelica Pappas, a spokeswoman for the California Restaurant Assn, told the publication: “Technically speaking, these rules do apply to bars. It’s been a common question we’ve heard, so there may be more information to come on this in guidance documents from the health inspectors.”

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

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