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What are EN 1186 Gloves?

If you work with food, you’ve probably come across food-safe gloves. However, what exactly makes a glove “safe” for food handling? That’s where EN 1186 comes in. EN 1186 gloves are specially tested and certified to ensure they’re safe for use in contact with food. This standard ensures that the materials in the gloves do not leach harmful substances into what you’re preparing, serving, or packing. In short, they help keep your food and kitchen safe and ensure your business stays compliant. What Does “EN 1186” Actually Mean?” EN 1186 is part of a wider group of standards that focuses on materials intended to come into contact with food. EN 1186 tests whether materials release chemicals into food. These are called migration tests, and they simulate real-world scenarios, such as wearing gloves while handling raw meat or vegetables. If the glove passes the test? It earns the EN 1186 certification and is legally allowed for direct contact with food in the UK. So, when you see “EN 1186” on glove packaging, you know you’re getting a product that meets strict safety rules. What Makes a Glove EN 1186 Compliant? Not just any glove can carry an EN 1186 badge. The ones that do have gone through rigorous checks, including: Material: The glove must be made from approved substances such as nitrile, vinyl or latex, with coatings or powders that won’t migrate harmful elements into food. Migration Testing: Lab simulations expose gloves to various food types and conditions. Specific Use Verification: Some gloves are approved for specific foods, such as fatty foods or acidic fruits, and others are general-purpose. These gloves are then tested to ensure they don’t exceed legal limits of overall migration (OML) and specific migration (SML) into food. For example, the OML limit is usually 10 mg/dm²; anything more could pose a risk. How Are Gloves Tested Under EN 1186? Testing isn’t done on a whim. There’s a whole science behind it. Here’s How It Typically Works: Simulants: Scientists use food simulants (such as water, olive oil or ethanol) to mimic how the glove would behave with real food. Test Conditions: Gloves are soaked or heated for set times to simulate real-life use, from quick kitchen tasks to long food prep shifts. Measurements: The lab checks if any chemicals migrate from the glove to the simulant beyond safe limits. These tests give manufacturers confidence and consumers peace of mind that the gloves won’t compromise food quality. Where Are EN 1186 Gloves Used? These gloves show up anywhere food and hands meet, including: Food prep in commercial kitchens Catering events and food stalls Supermarket counters Butcheries and delis From fast food franchises to local delis, EN 1186 gloves protect both your food and your reputation. Why Should You Choose EN 1186 Gloves? EN 1186 gloves aren’t just about ticking a box; they’re about real benefits: Protects food from contamination Ensures legal compliance Boosts customer trust and hygiene standards Ideal for food-grade environments Confidence in clean production lines If your gloves don’t meet EN 1186, you could be taking risks you didn’t even know existed. With certified gloves, you know you’re covered. When choosing your gloves, you need to check for: CE marking and EN 1186 label on the packaging Food-safe symbol (fork and wine glass) Top Tips for Using Food-Safe Gloves Make the most of your gloves with these quick tips: Store gloves in a cool, dry place away from sunlight Check the expiry date; materials degrade over time Wash your hands before and after use Change gloves regularly, especially when switching between tasks Match gloves to food type Safety You Can Feel Good About Understanding EN 1186 gloves means making better, safer choices. Whether you’re prepping meals for a crowd or at a food stall, EN 1186 gloves ensure what touches your food is clean, tested and compliant. At Easy Gloves, we stock a wide range of EN 1186-certified gloves for every food-related task. Not sure which type suits your needs? Our friendly team is always happy to help.