The Importance of the Chef’s Uniform

In the Middle Ages, a chef’s public standing was equal to a doctor. Today, the chef plays the most important role in any kitchen, from a commercial setting to a restaurant. The chef’s uniform must fulfil multiple roles, differentiating the wearer from other staff, contributing to food safety practices and allowing for functionality.

Fildes Food Safety offers a range of uniform items designed for optimal comfort and safety. Uniforms are available as single items or as value-for-money bundles suitable for not only chefs but butchers, kitchen staff and front of house members.

Headwear

Traditionally, varying chef hats identified rank and identity within the kitchen depending on height, number of folds and colour. Today, the headwear has been overhauled to comply with necessary 21st-century food hygiene regulations. The most popular design, a black cap, controls perspiration and prevents hair fall. Hats are also best accompanied by a hair net with tight weaves to further avoid hair escaping, an item conveniently sold by Fildes Food Safety in bulk packs of 100. 

Shirts

With kitchens hosting a range of hazards from bursts of steam to open flames, a chef’s shirt and jacket should allow for both comfort and safety to minimise risk. Considerations when purchasing a chef’s shirt include style, material, weight and durability. Double breasted designs are popular, with the extra layer providing added protection from spills to the chest. While white is considered classic, black material is often best to veil spills and ensure a high level of appearance is maintained by chefs.

Pants

Similar to shirts, a chef’s pants should ensure maximum ease and protection. Ideally constructed from lightweight, durable fabric such as a polyester and cotton blend, the pants should host pockets large enough to store pens, thermometers and other important tools.

Did you know? Chef’s pants are designed with a black and white check pattern to disguise any stains that may result from handling multiple food substances.

Aprons

Designed as a first defence against spills, the apron should fit close to the body to avoid potential hazards such as snagging or falling into food. A variety of options are available, such as PVC or cotton, each specifically catering to a certain role within the kitchen or food industry.

Top Tip- A restaurant or catering business may choose to communicate their brand through the use of particular colours and logos on an apron, which is also likely to be worn by front of house staff.

Shoes

Footwear is arguably the most important component of a chef’s uniform. The profession requires individuals to be on their feet for hours on end, therefore it is a requirement that shoes are comfortable and  provide protection. Moreover, shoes are responsible for almost a quarter of injuries in the kitchen. Feet are most likely to be exposed to slippery floors and dropping hazards. Fildes Food Safety recommends opting for a pair that feature a slip resistant sole and steel toe-cap.

Rubber work boots, are particularly important to provide protection for butchers.

Order from our range of uniforms online or get in touch with our friendly customer service team.