The FDA ban on powdered gloves went into effect on January 18, 2017. This means that any powdered surgical gloves, powdered patient exam gloves and absorbable powder for lubricating surgical gloves sold and in possession of veterinary clinics and animal surgical centers fall under the ban and should be disposed of.
Source: Veterinary Practice News, April 3, 2017.
According to the FDA, the reasoning behind the ban is that powdered gloves “present an unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury that cannot be corrected or eliminated by a change in labeling.” The risks of powdered glove use outweigh any benefits, which are minimal, noted the FDA, involving mostly comfortability issues for wearers.
INSIGHTS: AHD posted information about this ban last September in Prepare to be powder-free.