Plastic is part of your everyday life. You see it in food containers, electronics, and more. Over the past 70 years, plastic production grew from a small amount to 460 million tons in 2019 .
Packaging uses the most plastic. It accounts for 42% of plastic use at every stage .
There is a concern about unsafe plastics. Unsafe plastics are not food-grade.
Food-grade plastic means it meets safety rules for use with food.
Food-safe plastic is plastic that does not harm your health when it touches food.
Some chemicals in plastic may cause health issues. These include:
- PBDE: A chemical used to slow burning.
- BPA: A chemical used to harden plastic.
- DEHP: A chemical used to make plastic flexible.
These chemicals have been linked to inflammatory bowel disease and breathing problems .
This guide will help you learn about food-grade and food-safe plastics, their differences, and the types available.
What Does Food Grade Mean in Plastics?
You care about the environment and safe food. You may ask what food-grade plastic means and how you can tell if your plastic is safe to use with food.
Food-grade plastic is made to be safe. It is non-toxic.
Non-toxic means it does not have harmful chemicals.
Food-grade plastic meets strict rules. These rules are set by authorities like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) .
They use a rating scale of 1 to 7. This scale helps show how safe the plastic is.
Manufacturers choose plastic based on its composition.
Composition means the mix of chemicals that make up the plastic.
Some plastics resist chemicals. They have a lower chance of releasing toxins when heated or in contact with food.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Food-grade plastic is non-toxic.
- It meets safety guidelines.
- It is tested by regulatory bodies.
Not every plastic with a 1-to-7 rating is completely safe. Some may still allow toxins to mix with food .
Let’s break it down.
| Food-Grade | Plastic Type | Typical Usage | Recommendation |
| 1 | Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | Food and beverage packaging industry due to its lightweight. | Safe to use |
| 2 | High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | Packaging of food storing products such as milk bottles and containers. | Safe to use |
| 3 | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Wrapper packaging and pipe manufacturing industry. | Not safe to use |
| 4 | Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) | Manufacturing of plastic bags (bread bags) and squeezable bottles. | Safe to use |
| 5 | Polypropylene (PP) | Making reusable food containers and food storage containers. | Safe to use |
| 6 | Polystyrene PS | Single-use food packaging products and shipping cases | Not safe to use |
| 7 | Others (PLA, PC, ABS, TPE, and Tritan) | Manufacturing baby products, water bottles, and storage containers. | Some are safe, and some are not safe to use. |
Table 1: Food-grade plastic numbers and their usage
Food-Safe vs. Food-Grade:
Food-grade and food-safe plastics are not the same.
Food-grade plastic has low chemical levels and is usually BPA-free.
BPA is a chemical that can harm your health.
This type of plastic is used in products like kitchen gadgets, conveyor belts, and appliances.
It may not always touch your food directly.
Food-safe plastic is made for direct food contact.
It is tested by the FDA to meet strict rules .
This plastic is used for carrying, storing, and serving food.
Here are some key features of food-safe plastic:
- It does not contain harmful chemicals.
- It resists other chemicals.
- It is less likely to release toxins when heated.
- It does not change the food’s taste or smell .
You can check for the food-grade label on products.
This helps you know they are safe for their intended use.
What’s Important to Know About BPA?
BPA stands for Bisphenol A. It is a chemical used in many disposable beverage and food packaging products. It is also found in PC plastics and epoxy resins .
Studies show that BPA is not safe for food contact. Researchers have linked BPA to health hazards. You can get BPA into your body from food containers, bottles, or food boxes. When these items are heated, they may leak toxins into your food, which can lead to serious health issues .
Here are some key points about BPA:
- BPA means Bisphenol A.
- It is used in disposable packaging and in making hard plastics.
- Heating containers with BPA can cause harmful chemicals to leach into food.
This information can help you make safer choices about the products you use.
What is BPA, and Why is It Dangerous?
BPA stands for Bisphenol A. It is a harmful chemical.
It is also called an endocrine disruptor.
An endocrine disruptor is a substance that can affect your hormonal system .
Exposure to BPA may lead to health problems.
These problems include reproductive issues, obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
Some experts believe that your body can remove small amounts of BPA.
They say that low levels of BPA in food packaging might not harm your health .
However, here are some key points to consider:
- BPA can disturb your hormones.
- It may cause serious health issues.
- Low BPA levels might be less concerning.
- You should avoid using BPA products for reheating food.
This way, you can make safer choices when it comes to food contact materials.
Types of Food-grade Plastics:
When you choose a material, you want one that meets your needs and keeps you safe.
Food-grade plastics are made to meet safety rules for contact with food .
You need to know about the different types.
Here are some common ones:
1. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate):
PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate.
It is a light plastic used for bottles and packaging in the beverage industry.
You see it in soda bottles and food storage containers.
PET is recyclable.
Recycling helps reduce environmental impact .
However, PET can release estrogenic compounds when it is reused often.
Estrogenic compounds are chemicals that act like the hormone estrogen in your body .
Here are some key points about PET:
- It is lightweight.
- It is common in beverage packaging.
- It is recyclable.
- Frequent reuse may cause chemical release.
This information can help you make safer choices when using plastic products.
2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene):
This material is a good choice for home use.
It is safe for cold storage.
Cold storage means keeping food at low temperatures.
It is approved by the FDA and USDA.
These groups ensure the material is toxin-free and recyclable .
It is often used for food packaging for cold items.
For example, you can find it in milk containers, salad containers, and juice bottles.
Here are some key points:
- Safe for cold storage.
- Toxin-free.
- Recyclable.
- Approved by the FDA and USDA.
It also offers high strength, large holding capacity, and good resistance to damage.
This makes it very durable.
3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is not safe for food packaging.
It can release chemicals called plasticizers.
Plasticizers are additives that make plastics flexible.
Examples include BPA, phthalates, and bisphenols .
PVC is made from vinyl chloride monomer.
Vinyl chloride monomer is a chemical known to cause cancer.
A carcinogen is a substance that can lead to cancer .
You should avoid using PVC when food touches the material.
Key points:
- PVC releases harmful plasticizers.
- It is made from a carcinogenic chemical.
- It is not recommended for food contact.
4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene):
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is a flexible plastic commonly used in food packaging. It’s found in items like cling wraps, plastic bags, and squeezable bottles for products like ketchup and sauces. Oriplast.
LDPE is known for its flexibility and durabilityhttps://unuocosmetics.com. However, it may not be as sturdy as some other plastics, and its reusability can vary depending on the specific product and usage.
Key points about LDPE:
- Commonly used in food packaging, such as cling wraps and squeezable bottles.
- Known for its flexibility and durability.
- Reusability depends on the specific product and usage.
5. PP (Polypropylene):
Polypropylene (PP) is a lightweight plastic known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to impact. These qualities make it popular in the food packaging industry for items like single-use tableware and reusable containers. PP is also microwave and refrigerator safe, adding to its versatility. Importantly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved polypropylene for food contact applications, ensuring its safety for use with food. source from https://fpcusa.com
6. PS (Polystyrene):
Polystyrene, often called PS or plastic #6, is commonly used to make foam containers, cups, and clamshells. However, it’s not safe for food-related uses because it can release harmful chemicals when heated. For example, microwaving polystyrene containers can cause chemicals like styrene to leach into food, posing health risks. source from Welcome to UCLA Heal
Additionally, polystyrene is not biodegradable, meaning it doesn’t break down naturally in the environment. This contributes to long-term pollution. While some recycling methods exist, polystyrene is often considered non-recyclable due to challenges in the recycling process.
Given these concerns, it’s best to avoid using polystyrene for food-related purposes. Instead, consider safer alternatives like glass, ceramic, or other plastics labeled as microwave-safe. source from Real Simple
7. Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate (PC) is a strong, lightweight plastic.
It is often used for hospital trays, baby bottles, and storage containers.
It can handle heat and impact well, making it a durable choice.
However, some polycarbonate products contain BPA.
BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical that can leak into food or drinks, especially when heated.
Studies suggest BPA may affect hormones and health (NIEHS).
Because of this concern, many industries are switching to safer alternatives:
- BPA-free polycarbonates – Designed to provide the same strength but without BPA.
- PLA bioplastics – Made from renewable sources like corn starch, these are biodegradable and safer for food contact (Bioplastics News).
If you’re choosing plastic for food use, look for BPA-free labels or bioplastic options.
Safe Plastics Number Chart for Food-Grade Plastic:
A simple chart can help you understand which plastics are safe for food use.
Most plastic products have a number (1 to 7) stamped on the bottom.
This number tells you whether the plastic is safe for storing or serving food.
Plastics labeled 1, 2, 4, 5, and some 7s are generally safe.
They do not release harmful chemicals into food.
Plastics marked 3, 6, and certain 7s should be avoided for food use.
Common safe food-grade plastics include:
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Used for milk jugs and food containers.
- LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) – Found in plastic wraps and squeeze bottles.
- PP (Polypropylene) – Used for reusable food containers and baby bottles.
- PLA (Polylactic Acid) – A biodegradable plastic made from plants.
Checking the number on plastic items can help you make safer choices for food storage.
What Are the Uses for Food Grade Plastic?
Food-grade plastic is widely used in the food industry, but its applications go beyond food storage and packaging.
These plastics are designed to be safe, durable, and resistant to chemicals. Because of these properties, they are also used in other industries that impact health and the environment.
Here are some common uses of food-grade plastic:
Food and Beverage Containers:
Food-grade plastics are commonly used to make food and beverage containers.
Some of the most common types include:
- LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) – Used for plastic wraps and squeeze bottles.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Found in milk jugs and food storage containers.
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – Used for water bottles and juice containers.
These plastics are designed to be safe for food contact and help keep food fresh.
Plastic Food Wrapping:
LDPE and PVC plastics are commonly used to make flexible food wraps.
These materials help protect food from bacteria and contamination. They are often used for:
- Cheese wraps – Keeps cheese fresh by preventing moisture loss.
- Bread bags – Helps maintain softness and prevent mold.
- Meat packaging bags – Reduces exposure to air and bacteria.
While LDPE is considered a safer option, PVC may contain chemicals that can transfer to food. It’s best to check labels for food-safe options.
Food-related Equipment:
Food-grade plastics like HDPE and PP are commonly used in food processing equipment.
These materials are strong, durable, and safe for food contact. They are often used for:
- Conveyor belts – Helps transport food safely during processing.
- Kitchen tools – Includes spatulas, mixing bowls, and measuring cups.
- Cutting boards – Provides a sturdy, non-porous surface for food prep.
HDPE and PP are chosen for their strength, stability, and resistance to moisture and chemicals.
Single-use Tableware:
PLA, PS, and PET are materials often used to make disposable tableware. This includes things like plates, utensils, cups, and bowls. You’ve probably seen these in restaurants or with takeout meals.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what these materials are:
- PLA: Made from plants like corn or sugarcane, it’s biodegradable and compostable under the right conditions.
- PS: Also known as polystyrene, it’s lightweight and cheap but not easily recyclable.
- PET: A type of plastic that’s strong, clear, and recyclable, often used for drink bottles.
These materials are popular because they’re affordable and practical for single-use items. However, their environmental impact varies. For example, PLA breaks down more easily than PS or PET, but it needs specific composting facilities to do so. PET is recyclable, but not all recycling programs accept it. PS is harder to recycle and often ends up in landfills.
If you’re curious about how these materials affect the environment, you can check sources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or National Geographic for more details.
Pharmaceutical and Medical Containers:
HDPE, LDPE, and PET are types of plastics often used to make medical products. You might find these materials in things like surgical containers or boxes used to transport medicine.
Here’s a quick explanation of what these plastics are:
- HDPE: Stands for high-density polyethylene. It’s strong, durable, and resistant to chemicals, making it good for heavy-duty containers.
- LDPE: Stands for low-density polyethylene. It’s softer and more flexible, often used for squeeze bottles or bags.
- PET: Stands for polyethylene terephthalate. It’s lightweight, clear, and shatterproof, which makes it useful for storing liquids or sensitive
Manufacturing Food-Grade Plastic Products for You
We focus on providing high-quality food-grade plastic products for your needs.
Our team is experienced, and we use advanced machinery to ensure the final product meets your standards. We also specialize in other areas like CNC Machining, Plastic Injection Molding, and Mold Manufacturing.
We offer FDA-approved food-grade plastics for a range of industries. You can also customize products to fit your specific requirements.
For more details or a quote, feel free to reach out. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you.