Food Grade Plastic: Which Plastics Are Safe For Food Storage

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Plastic is widely used in the world for storing food but has recently been found to contain harmful chemicals such as BPAs. BPAs are unsafe for human consumption and lead to health problems. This raises the important question of which plastics are safe. 

Plastic containers come with a food-grade rating on the bottom that ranges from 1 to 7. This gives consumers an idea of how safe they are for storing their food. Plastic grades 2, 4, and 5 are the safest for food storage. Using these plastics to store food will prevent accidental toxin ingestion.

What Does Food Grade Mean in Plastics?

 

Food-grade plastic has to meet regulations. It can&#;t contain dyes, additives, or any harmful products. Food-safe plastic can contain recycled materials, but these must fit appropriate guidelines. The Food and Drug Administration is responsible for determining how materials may act when in contact with food.

FDA-Approved Plastics: Food-Safe Plastic Containers for Storage

These are the food-safe plastic containers that the FDA has deemed appropriate for safe food storage:

• High-density polyethylene (HDPE plastic)

• Low-density polyethylene (LDPE plastic)

• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET/PETE)

• Food-grade polypropylene (PP)

• Polycarbonate (PC)

• Acrylic

• Nylon

Is HDPE Food Safe?

Many plastic containers are HDPE safe. This is because they contain chemical-resistant properties. HPDE food-safe containers do not harm the user. They provide resistance to mold, mildew, and corrosion.

Plastic Safety: Is LDPE Food Safe?

Thinner resins and rigid applications use a tough material that is chemical resistant. This prevents toxins from leaching into food, meaning that LDPE is food safe. It ranks at a 4 on the recycling number chart. LDPE safety includes products such as bread bags, six-pack rings, and produce bags.

Is PET Plastic Food Safe?

Polyethylene terephthalate has great wear resistance, strength, and stability. PET plastic safety is ensured by this. Food-grade PET items include single-serve beverage bottles, vitamin bottles, and condiment bottles. 

These include plastic bottles that are safe for one-time usage. They&#;re safe when used only once, but they become unsafe and leak toxins if re-used or stored in the sun.

So, Is Polyethylene Toxic?

Polyethylene is generally safe and non toxic. Polyethylene food safety involves not leaving these containers in hot places. Otherwise, UV rays can break them down and be dangerous. These plastics should also never be re-used since polystyrene food containers are known to give off dangerous levels of BPA. 

Is Polypropylene Safe as a Food Grade Plastic?

Polypropylene fabric is used for many applications, including bale wrap, pallet sheets, and reinforcements. It is a very durable material that is also chemical resistant. Due to its high heat resistance, polypropylene safety is very high.

Polypropylene food-safe containers include medication bottles, dairy containers, and food storage boxes. Propylene food safety is made possible by its high heat tolerance, which ensures the plastics will not leak toxins when breaking down.

This plastic also has excellent thermal resistance, making it safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher. PP plastic is safe for food storage as well.

Is Polycarbonate Food Safe & FDA Compliant?

Food grade polycarbonate is very strong and much more impact resistant than glass. Its heat resistance allows it to be FDA compliant for food storage. But, is polycarbonate safe? Yes, it is a material that has high impact resistance and is very safe. 

Polycarbonates are safe for food storage and are often used for:

• Water-cooler bottles

• Baby bottles

• Reusable water containers

They&#;re also used to make bullet-proof plastic, ensuring it is a very durable material. 

Bioplastics are also included under rank 7 and are non-reactive and may be used to store food safely. Even so, it&#;s been shown to have levels of BPA in the resin but after testing, the BPA levels were too low for BPA to accumulate in the body. 

Is Acrylic Food Safe?

If you&#;re wondering, &#;is acrylic safe for food?&#; Acrylic food safety is high as it is a strong material and used instead of glass containers. They are FDA approved for contact with food but acrylic food-safe containers should not be microwaved or heated as they do not have high heat resistance.

Is Nylon Food Safe?

Nylon is food-safe and a very common thermoplastic material. It&#;s properties allow it to replace steel, brass, wood, and rubber and is FDA-compliant since it doesn&#;t leach chemical properties into food when cooking.

Nylon products include cooking utensils such as spatulas, whisks, and tongs as they have high heat abrasion. But, does nylon have BPA? Nylon does not contain BPA and is ranked 7 on the resin identification code.

What about Food Grade Plastic Bottles?

 

Food safe plastic bottles include code numbers 2,4, and 5 for storage as they are food grade. Code number 1 is safe for single-use. If re-used, they become dangerous.

Are HDPE bottles safe, though? They are, and they rank as 2 and are safe for food storage. 

Are PP bottles safe? They rank at 6 and aren&#;t the best choice as they leak poisonous gasses when heated. Bottles ranked at 3 and 7 should be avoided when storing food as they leak chemicals into the food. They are also dangerous when heated.

Safe Plastics Number Chart for Food Grade Plastic

The safe plastic numbers chart provides a recycling number on the bottom of each container ranging from 1 to 7. By checking this number, you can tell if it it is safe to store food in this container.

The green ones are non-toxic plastics; they provide no toxic leaching, whereas the red ones should be avoided.

You can buy smart devices from here.

What Plastic Numbers Are Safe for Food Storage?

Safe plastic numbers include 2, 4, and 5. These containers can store food without any toxic chemicals infiltrating. These include the materials HDPE, LDPE, and PP. They are marked as green in the picture.

This table breaks down each plastic and its recycling number:

 

Other Uses for Food Grade Plastic

Here are some of the other uses for food-grade plastics:

• Food grade bulk bags

• Sandbags

• Plastic produce bags

• Snack barrier pouches

• Bread bags

  Related links:
  Questions You Should Know about Woven Bag

  If you are looking for more details, kindly visit food grade paper bag solutions.

Plastics to Avoid for Food Storage

Here are some of the plastics that should not be used to store food as they are known for leaching chemicals:

• BPA (Bisphenol A)

• PVC

• Polystyrene (PS)

Our Conclusion on Which Plastics Are Safe

Now that we&#;ve broken down each plastic and its uses, which plastics are safe? Following the safe plastics number chart, plastics ranked 2, 4, and 5 are safe for food storage. Plastics ranked as 1 are only safe if used once and not left in direct sunlight. Avoid using any plastics ranked 3 or 6.

With the rising awareness of toxins in plastics, it&#;s important to know how you can safely store your food. Using the proper food storage containers prevents unwanted bacteria and toxins from entering the body. This prevents serious health concerns and makes the earth greener by using renewable materials.

Be sure to also check out our BRC meaning guide for more information on the role that the BRCGS plays in food safety.

FAQs on Food Safe Plastics

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding food-safe plastics.

What are the safest plastic food storage containers?

The safest plastic food storage containers are HDPE, LDPE, and PP plastics. These include juice and milk jugs, grocery bags, bread bags, produce bags, and food storage boxes. Food can be stored in these types of plastic containers without any toxins leaking.

What is the safest material for food storage?

Glass, stainless steel, silicone, and ceramic containers are the safest for food storage. They have the most heat resistance and do not leak toxins into your food. Glass is microwave-safe, toxin-free, and dishwasher-safe.

Stainless steel is also toxin-free, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe. Silicone containers are also non-toxic and do not leach off chemicals when heated in the microwave or oven. Ceramic containers are toxin-free, microwave safe, and dishwasher safe. 

What can I use instead of plastic containers?

Plastic containers are bad for the environment and humans. They are nonrenewable and contain BPAs. Glass containers are a great way to avoid BPA contamination. They are also heat-resistant.

Silicone containers are also a renewable option that doesn&#;t release toxins when heated. Stainless steel is another option that is toxin-free and very heat resistant.

Is polypropylene toxic to humans?

Polypropylene is ranked at 5 and is safe for food storage. Polypropylene is FDA-approved for food contact and also has a high heat tolerance. It is known to be a safer alternative to most other plastics. It can be used to heat beverages or foods without leaching. However, it can leach plastic additives and lead to occupational asthma. Most additives are found at a very low amount. Studies show that PP is not carcinogenic.

For more information on food grade plastics and food grade bulk bags, contact us today!

By Will Goodmann

Will Goodmann has been in the packaging industry and worked with FIBCs and other various packaging solutions for over 10 years. He graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He spends his free time with family and friends enjoying golfing, reading, and traveling extensively.

Plastics play an essential role in the food processing and packaging industry. Although different types of plastics are used in various ways in the food industry, not all plastics are suitable for contact with foods and other consumables. 

This article will explore the definition of food grade plastic and its shared features. As well as the common uses and different types of plastics safe for food.

What is Food Grade Plastic

Not all plastics are food grade. For plastic to be approved as a food safe plastic, it must be approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority. It is essential to know what food grade plastic is and some of its shared features.

The Definition of Food Grade Plastic

Food grade plastic refers to a type of plastic that is safe and suitable for use in the food packaging and storage industry. It is made from non-toxic, odorless materials and does not contain harmful chemicals or substances that can contaminate food products.

To be considered food grade, plastic must meet specific regulatory requirements and standards set by organizations such as the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority. These standards include factors such as purity, composition, and quality.

Shared Features of Food Safe Plastic

Food grade plastic materials have several features in common that make them safe for use in food contact applications. 

Excellent Wear Resistance

Food processing can involve a series of rigorous processes that the plastic must withstand. Food grade plastic materials must have excellent wear resistance to withstand the wear and tear that occurs during food processing and handling. These materials are designed to resist cracking, breaking, and chipping, which can cause food contamination.

Be Chemically Safe

Food grade plastic materials must be chemically safe and not release harmful chemicals into food. Plastics safe for food must be resistant to acidic and alkaline substances, oils, and fats that are present in food. They must also be free from heavy metals, BPA, and other harmful chemicals that can migrate into food.

High Strength and Flexural Modulus

Plastic for food packaging must have high strength and flexural modulus to withstand the pressure and stress that occurs during food processing and handling. 

Common Uses of Food-Grade Plastic

Food grade plastics have various applications in different industries. Now let&#;s explore some common uses of food-grade plastic in different industries.

Food Storage

One of the most common uses of food safe plastic is for food storage. Plastic containers made of food-grade material are popular for storing food items, such as fruits, vegetables, and leftovers, in the refrigerator or freezer. These containers are available in different sizes and shapes, and some even come with airtight lids to keep the food fresh for longer.

plastic containers for food storage

Storing of Beverage

Food-grade plastic is also widely used for storing beverages. Plastic water bottles, juice bottles, and milk bottles made of food-grade material are popular among consumers. These bottles are lightweight, easy to handle, and come with a tight-fitting cap to prevent leakage.

plastic container with coffee

Medication Bottles

Another important use of food-grade plastic is for medication bottles. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications come in plastic bottles made of food-grade material. These bottles are designed to keep the medicine safe, secure, and easy to handle.

Field Crops Storage

Food-grade plastic is also used in agriculture for storing field crops. Farmers use large plastic bags made of food-grade material to store and transport crops such as grain, beans, nuts, and vegetables. These bags protect crops from moisture, pests, and other environmental factors that can cause spoilage.

food grade plastics used to display farm produce

Pet Products

Plastics safe for food are also used in the manufacturing of pet products. Plastic pet bowls, water dispensers, and food containers are commonly made of food-grade plastic. These products are designed to be safe for pets to use, durable, and easy to clean.

plastic bowls for pets

5 Types of Plastic for Food Packaging

When it comes to food packaging, choosing the right type of plastic is essential to ensure the safety and quality of the food product. This article will discuss five common types of plastic for food packaging, their advantages, and their applications.

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

PET, also known as Polyethylene Terephthalate, is a type of plastic commonly used in food packaging production. PET is a lightweight and durable material. It is an excellent choice for transparent packaging because of its clarity. PET is commonly used to make clear plastic bottles for water, soda, juice, and food containers, such as salad containers and trays.

One of the main advantages of PET is its safety for food contact. It is approved by regulatory agencies worldwide for use in food packaging and is considered a food-grade plastic. PET is also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option for food packaging.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

HDPE, are popular plastic in food packaging. They are made from lightweight, strong materials that can easily be molded into different shapes and sizes. This makes it ideal for a range of packaging applications. HDPE is commonly used in the production of milk jugs, juice bottles, and cereal box liners, as well as grocery bags and other types of food packaging.

One of the primary advantages of HDPE is its moisture resistance, which makes it an excellent choice for packaging food products that need to be kept dry, such as cereal, pasta, and dry pet food.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride, is commonly used in the food industry to package consumable foods. PVC&#;s lightweight and ease of molding into different shapes and sizes make it a suitable choice for various packaging applications for different brands.

PVC has the advantage of forming a barrier against gases, including oxygen, which can help extend food products&#; shelf life. When used to package foods, they provide airtight packaging that prevents oxidation and other chemical activities from taking place. PVC is also resistant to moisture, making it a good choice for packaging products that need to be kept dry, such as snacks and dried fruits.

LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

LDPE is a flexible plastic that is useful in the food industry. It is commonly used to make food bags, such as bread bags and produce bags. LDPE is also used to make squeeze bottles and lids for condiments. It is safe for food contact and provides an excellent barrier against moisture and air.

PP (Polypropylene)

Polypropylene is a lightweight and durable material that has a high melting point. This makes it an excellent choice for food products that require high-temperature processing. PP is commonly used to make food containers, such as microwave-safe takeout containers and yogurt cups. It also makes food packaging films, such as snack bags and candy wrappers.

Methods for Recycling Food Grade Plastic

This section will explore two common methods for recycling food-grade plastic: mechanical and chemical recycling.

hand-picked plastics

Mechanical Recycling (Traditional Recycling)

Mechanical recycling also known as traditional recycling involves collecting and sorting plastic waste, cleaning and shredding it, and then melting it down to create new products. Mechanical recycling is a cost-effective process for recycling plastic. It can be used to recycle a wide range of plastics, including food-grade plastic, and the resulting products can be of high quality.

However, mechanical recycling has some limitations. For example, some types of plastic may be difficult to recycle due to their composition, and the quality of the resulting product may be affected by the recycling process. Also, mechanical recycling can only be done a limited number of times before the plastic degrades and becomes unsuitable for further use.

Chemical Recycling

Chemical recycling is a method for recycling food-safe plastics. It involves breaking down the plastic at a molecular level using chemical processes. Unlike mechanical recycling, which involves melting and reshaping plastic waste into new products, chemical recycling allows for the creation of new chemicals and materials from the plastic.

The process involves breaking down the plastic into its component parts, such as monomers or other chemicals, which can then be used to create new products. These products can include fuels, chemicals, and even new types of plastic.

Want to Custom Plastics in Food Packaging? FOW Mould Can Help You!

If you are looking for a company to help you create custom plastics for food packaging, FOW Mould is here to assist you. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, FOW Mould is a trusted partner for those looking to create custom food-safe plastic for food packaging.

Only Use High-Quality Metal Steel

High-quality metal steel is vital when it comes to mold making. They help produce a high-quality mold. FOW Mould only uses high-quality metal steel for injection molds and qualified resin for plastic parts to ensure the best possible plastics in food packaging.

Capable of Providing Precise Molds With Minimal Error

FOW Mould is capable of providing precise molds with minimal error. This is particularly important in the food packaging industry, where accuracy is crucial to ensure the safety of the products being packaged. FOW Mould can offer an accuracy range of 0.005mm for all molds and well-made injection molded parts.

Conclusion

Food-grade plastic is a vital component of the food packaging and storage industry. It is essential to choose the right type of food-safe plastic for the specific application to maintain the integrity and safety of the food products being packaged or stored. 

If you&#;re looking for high-quality food-grade plastic packaging solutions, FOW Mould can help. We can meet your food packaging need in the best way possible using the finest product. Contact us today to learn more about their services.

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