Wearing nitrile gloves when handling or applying capsaicin-containing products reduces the risk of burning and irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Capsaicin is the component that makes chili peppers spicy and is also used as a topical solution for chronic pain conditions.
What is Capsaicin?
Capsaicin is a chili pepper extract that gives hot chili peppers, including habanero and cayenne, their heat and spiciness. It has also been used for its analgesic properties as a homeopathic remedy for treating chronic pain, such as musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, and burning mouth syndrome. However, capsaicin is a counterirritant, causing severe irritation and a burning sensation when exposed to mucous membranes. Capsaicin is chemically classified as a member of the vanilloid family, which belongs to a class of organic compounds known as alkaloids.
While capsaicin may benefit culinary and medicinal contexts, there are certain risks to consider when handling capsaicin. Some of the main risks associated with capsaicin include:
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Respiratory irritation
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Capsaicin poisoning or toxicity
- Allergic reactions
- Interaction with medications
When healthcare or culinary professionals handle capsaicin, they must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles. Personal protective equipment (PPE) in the kitchen or medical settings protects the skin from irritants, harmful bacteria, cuts, and burns. Nitrile gloves are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are deemed food-safe for prepping, cooking, and serving.
The Benefits of Nitrile Gloves in Handling Capsaicin
Nitrile gloves are practical PPE gloves for protecting hands from capsaicin exposure. Capsaicin is an oily substance that can penetrate the skin when in contact, making nitrile gloves suitable for protection. Nitrile is a synthetic rubber resistant to oils, chemicals, and punctures. The benefits of nitrile gloves in handling or applying capsaicin include:
- Chemical and oil resistance
- Prevents skin irritation
- Allergy safe
- Durable and puncture-resistant
- Improved grip
- Flexible, comfortable fit
- Hygienic
- Prevents cross-contamination
- Versatile glove applications
When inhaled through the nose, capsaicin can cause dry coughing spells, wheezing, and shortness of breath (dyspnea). When exposed to the eyes, capsaicin can cause intense burning pain, tearing, blurry vision, conjunctivitis, and blepharospasm.
Wearing disposable nitrile gloves while handling capsaicin protects the skin from contact with the potent compound. Nitrile gloves can be used in both the medical field and the kitchen to protect the skin, hands, eyes, and nose from exposure to capsaicin. Gloves also help maintain hygiene in these settings by preventing cross-contamination and the spread of capsaicin to other food items and surfaces.
Chemical Resistant Gloves
Wearing chemical-resistant nitrile gloves when handling hot peppers or cooking spicy meals can prevent skin exposure to capsaicin. Gloves that offer chemical resistance provide chefs, home cooks, and medical professionals with safety and assurance when handling potentially harmful products. Other glove materials, such as latex, may absorb the oils from capsaicin, which can infiltrate the skin and cause burns and irritation.
Durable and Puncture-Resistant
Nitrile’s durable and puncture-resistant glove features outshine other disposable gloves, such as vinyl or latex. Puncture resistance is paramount when handling capsaicin in the kitchen or a medical setting with sharp or rough materials. Pepper stems or seeds may compromise the glove’s integrity, exposing the skin to tears and punctures.
Allergy Safe: Latex-Free Nitrile Gloves
Latex-free nitrile gloves don’t contain the same proteins as latex gloves, which trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities. Allergen-friendly gloves are necessary in the workplace, especially in the kitchen, where food is handled, or in a medical environment, where patients are treated.
Enhanced Grip
Nitrile’s textured surface gives culinary professionals and healthcare workers an excellent grip. Gloves with a good grip are handy when working with wet or slippery objects and materials, such as freshly washed peppers, cooking utensils, or other cooking substances.
Comfortable and Flexible Fit
Wearing well-fitted and comfortable gloves is essential in the culinary and medical fields. Gloves that conform to the hand allow for better control and dexterity when performing tasks such as cutting or deseeding peppers.
Versatile Pair of Gloves
While nitrile gloves are excellent PPE for cooking, they are also suitable for laboratory work, gardening, and automotive work. Having versatile gloves on hand can be helpful when cooking with capsaicin and when needed for other applications.
Disposable Gloves to Promote Hygiene and Safety
Nitrile disposable gloves help prevent cross-contamination when handling capsaicin in the kitchen. Discarding gloves after each use ensures that whatever bacteria or substances don’t linger on the skin or nearby surfaces. Properly disposing of nitrile gloves after cooking is especially beneficial when protecting the skin from high-heat elements like capsaicin.
Purchasing Food-Safe Nitrile Gloves
Purchasing food-safe nitrile gloves safeguards the skin against irritation and burning from capsaicin and is recommended for several home and kitchen applications. Nitrile gloves are versatile disposable gloves for washing dishes, handling raw meats and vegetables, gardening, surface cleaning, and deep cleaning. Utilizing nitrile gloves in the home helps maintain cleanliness, health, and safety in the kitchen and outdoors.
Ordering nitrile gloves in bulk with LifeMedz helps you maintain a clean and hygienic household. Bulk nitrile gloves will prevent cross-contamination while protecting the skin from harmful irritants, pathogens, cuts, burns, and drying out. Order the most durable nitrile gloves with Lifemedz today!
Reference:
- StatPearls, 2023. Capsaicin.
- Cleveland Clinic, 2022. Dyspnea.
- Healthline, 2020. What Are Capsaicin Supplements, and Do They Aid Weight Loss?
- Molecules, 2016. Capsaicin, Nociception and Pain.
- Pfizer. Bodily Functions Explained: Spicy Food Reaction.
