When it comes to food processing and packaging, safety and compliance are an unavoidable part of the job. Material contact with food must be regulated, and standards for hygiene, non-toxicity and resistance must be set.
That’s where choosing the right engineering plastics comes into play. And you also need to know which plastics are food-grade.
If you are still a beginner, don’t fret because this blog post will cover all the basics so that you can make the best decision for your business.
What Makes Plastics Food-Grade?
For food-safe plastics, the requirement is strict safety that it won’t pollute or alter the quality of the food. Those properties are these:
- Chemical Resistance: Food-grade plastics are not affected by acids, alkalis or oils present in food, and no harmful chemical leaching is possible.
- Non-Toxic: These plastics are without harmful ingredients and cannot interact with food at any time.
- Food grade – must stand up to wear, temperatures, and repeated cleaning without breaking down or getting into food.
- Smooth Surface Finish: A non-porous finish avoids the growth of bacteria and keeps the surfaces clean after many uses.
Which Engineering Plastics Are Food-Grade?
We understand the particular requirements of food processors and packaging manufacturers. So, that’s why we present you with many food-grade engineering plastics for various applications. Below are some of the top choices from reputable sellers.
1. PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
PEEK is an advanced plastic that is famous for its durability, heat resistance, and chemical resistance. It’s food-contact rated and excellent at high temperatures, so it is perfect for use in industrial food processing machines.
Applications:
- Components for food processing equipment
- High-temperature bearings and seals.
- Components that need chemicals and wear resistance.
2. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
One of the most commonly used food plastics is PET, which is famous for its lightweight, transparency, moisture and chemical resistance. Its unparalleled dimensional stability allows for reliable use in food packaging and storage.
Applications:
- Food packaging containers
- Conveyor belts in food production
- Protective covers and guides
3. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
Popularly called Teflon, PTFE excels in non-stick coatings. It is FDA-approved, highly chemical-resistant, and resistant to a wide range of temperatures, making it indispensable for food applications.
Applications:
- Food processing gaskets and seals.
- Non-stick coatings for cooking equipment
- Valve components in beverage processing
4. UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)
It’s an extremely tough plastic that’s FDA and USDA-approved for food contact. It provides a low-friction finish and is perfect for devices that require wear resistance and reduced material sticking.
Applications:
- Cutting surfaces and chopping boards
- Conveyor liners and guides
- Bulk solids transport systems
Why Do Food-Grade Plastics Matter?
The right food-grade plastic can change the game in food production. This is why choosing these materials is so important:
- Conformity with Regulations: Your company should comply with all regulations issued by agencies such as the FDA and state food safety boards.
- Lifespan: Food plastics withstand wear, chemicals and heat to reduce equipment breakdown.
- Cost Effectiveness: Robust and easy-to-maintain plastics keep repairs and replacements in place longer.
- Security to Customers: With certified materials, customers are reassured that you’re taking safety and quality seriously.
Choose only the best, and National Engineering Plastics (NEP) is your material expert. If you’re making state-of-the-art food processing equipment or streamlining your packaging, our range of engineering plastics can make your life easier.
Here’s how they can help:
- Specialist Tips: We know what’s in it for the food industry, and will guide you on the materials that are right for you.
- Accessible Purchase: Live online stock and real-time prices mean you can order the materials needed anytime, anywhere.
- Top-End Plastics: From PET to PTFE, we carry only the best food-safe engineering plastics.
- Worldwide Shipping: Orders above $150 get free shipping, so you get the materials you need quickly.
Take the Next Step to Safer, Smarter Functions
Not all plastics are created equal. When safety, efficacy, and compliance count, food-grade plastics are judged through the eyes of stringent rules. Through NEP, you receive only the best range of plastics, consulting and unmatched support to bring your food processing or packaging system to the next level.
Upgrade to food-grade plastics now! Call the best customer service team or search the catalogue online for the right solution for your company. Let’s build safer, smoother and always ahead-of-the-game operations together.