Food Industry Footwear

Quality footwear for the food industry, such as that offered by RAG Tailors, is characterised by several essential properties. It must be non-slip to prevent accidents on wet or oily surfaces, waterproof to protect against liquids, and made from washable materials that withstand frequent cleaning at high temperatures (up to 90°C). Other key features include resistance to chemicals used in cleaning, lightness to reduce fatigue during long hours, and a design without exposed seams that could accumulate residue. Excellent agri-food footwear must also be antibacterial, preventing the proliferation of microorganisms and ensuring the highest hygiene standards required by the sector.

Premium materials for food safety footwear mainly include microfibre, EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) and polyurethane (PU). Microfibre stands out for its durability and ease of cleaning, and is an antibacterial material that can withstand washing with bleach. EVA offers lightness and excellent moisture resistance, while polyurethane provides superior comfort and elasticity. At RAG Tailors, we carefully select materials that not only meet the technical requirements of the agri-food sector, but also ensure comfort over long periods of use. These materials are specifically chosen for their ability to tolerate frequent washing at high temperatures without deforming or degrading, while maintaining the anti-slip and protective properties essential to the food working environment.

Non-slip footwear is crucial in the food industry due to the high risk of falls on surfaces that are often wet, oily or contaminated with food residue. Statistics show that slips and falls account for a significant percentage of workplace accidents in the food industry, and can result in serious injuries and long-term absences. The specialist footwear offered by RAG Tailors incorporates soles with advanced non-slip technology, providing superior grip even in extreme conditions. These features not only protect workers, but also help companies comply with workplace safety regulations, reducing potential costs associated with accidents and increasing productivity through increased employee confidence and mobility during their daily tasks.

Proper maintenance of agri-food footwear is essential to ensure hygiene and durability. For RAG Tailors microfiber footwear, we recommend regular machine washing at up to 90°C with conventional detergents and bleach when necessary. In high-risk environments, daily sanitation is recommended to prevent cross-contamination. After each shift, footwear should be washed to remove food residue, oils and chemicals. It is important to dry completely before the next use, avoiding direct sources of heat that could damage the structure of the shoe. For PU or EVA footwear, washing machines or manual cleaning with hot water and suitable detergents can be used. Regularly inspect the wear of non-slip soles, as their performance decreases with prolonged use, compromising safety.

When selecting food-grade footwear, it is essential to check for certifications that ensure compliance with safety and hygiene standards. Look for the CE marking, which is mandatory for all personal protective equipment in the European Union. EN ISO 20345 sets out basic requirements for safety footwear, while EN ISO 20346 covers protective footwear. For the food sector specifically, make sure that the footwear complies with HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) requirements and standards such as EN ISO 22000 for food safety management systems. RAG Tailors ensures that all its food-grade footwear complies with these certifications, plus additional tests for chemical resistance (EN 13832), anti-slip properties (EN 13287) and anti-static characteristics where necessary.

Different areas of the food sector require footwear with specific characteristics. For wet processing areas, such as dairy or fish processing, we recommend mid- or high-cut waterproof boots with reinforced anti-slip properties. In bakery or dry food production areas, closed-toe microfiber shoes offer comfort and adequate ventilation. For cold storage, footwear should include thermal insulation in addition to the standard properties. In packaging areas, where mobility is crucial, lighter and more flexible models are ideal. RAG Tailors offers a complete range of agri-food footwear adapted to each specific environment, from industrial kitchens to automated production lines, always incorporating the essential features of washability, resistance and safety that distinguish high-quality professional footwear.

Selecting footwear for food service teams requires a strategic approach. First, identify the specific risks for each area: presence of liquids, oils, extreme temperatures or the need for intense mobility. Also consider the frequency of cleaning required and the level of comfort for long shifts. RAG Tailors offers expert advice on this process, helping to select models that balance protection and ergonomics. For large teams, we recommend creating a test program with different models before purchasing on a large scale. Don't forget that footwear can be customized with embroidery or printing to integrate the company's visual identity, strengthening the corporate image while maintaining the highest food safety standards. Investing in superior quality footwear represents long-term savings, reducing frequent replacements and improving productivity.