Choosing a Glove
Polyethylene Gloves
Overview
Offering the best economy, polyethylene gloves serve as an inexpensive solution for creating a barrier between bare hands and handled material (most typically, food). Combined with good hand washing practices, poly gloves can assist in maintaining a hygienic environment free from biological contaminants, including foodborne illnesses.
Most poly gloves are smooth in texture. For users seeking added comfort and dexterity, the unique texture of cast poly gloves offers an improved fit and is less likely to slip when wet.
Performance
| Barrier Protection |  |
| Chemical Resistance | |
| Form, Feel, and Comfort |  |
| Strength and Durability | |
| Elasticity | |
| Puncture Resistance | |
| Allergen Content |  |
| Economy |  |
Grades
Poly gloves are only available in foodservice grade and industrial grade.
Quality Standards
No formal industry quality standard exist for polyethylene gloves. Like with other glove types, however, poly glove components must comply with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) when in direct contact with food.
Applications
Poly gloves are intended for use on short-term tasks, most commonly in food preparation. Longer length poly gloves are also commonly used for agricultural and veterinary purposes.
Colors
Poly gloves are transparent in color, although gloves not made entirely of virgin material often have a brownish tint.
Composition
Nitrile gloves are made from 100% synthetic polymer, consisting of acrylonitrile, butadiene and a carboxylic acid.
Country of Origin
The vast majority of polyethylene gloves are manufactured in China.