Why use FDA-approved rubber seals in the food industry?
Rubber seals are widely used in the food and medical industries, which are subject to rigorous regulation and must adhere to strict quality and safety standards. As a result, any component used in the processing, packaging, or storage of food and medical products must meet precise specifications to prevent contamination.
This article focuses on the importance of FDA-approved rubber seals in the food industry.
What is food-grade rubber?
Food-grade rubber refers to rubber materials that are safe for use in any application related to food production, processing, storage, and packaging. Food-grade rubber products are specifically formulated and tested to ensure that they do not contain harmful chemicals or contaminants that could transfer into food and compromise its safety. Food-grade seals must also block out bacteria and other contaminants from entering the food or food packaging.
Rubber seals for the food industry must be compatible with industrial conditions to stay durable and functional. Seals and other rubber components must be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the industrial environment, which can include extreme temperatures and aggressive cleaning procedures.
Where is food-grade rubber used?
Rubber components like O-rings or custom-made seals can be found in many applications involving food production. For instance, rubber parts are required in food processing machinery and packaging equipment. It is therefore essential to ensure that these rubber components are made from FDA-approved compounds. An everyday household example of such rubber seals is plastic food containers that have an airtight lid.
Why do you need FDA-approved seals?
The FDA is the United States federal agency for protecting public health by ensuring the safety and quality of foods, medicines, and other products. The FDA’s authority is limited to the United States, but its regulations are often considered global quality standards.
The FDA is recognized worldwide as the leading food and drug regulatory agency and the most rigorous regulatory body. FDA-approval signals that the product has undergone a strict review process and has been proven safe. The FDA maintains a list of substances and chemicals permissible for contact with food items through its Codes of Federal Regulations.
Which FDA regulation covers seals?
In the case of rubber seals, the relevant FDA regulation is the Code of Federal Regulations (title 21), section number 177.2600 (CFR 21.177.2600). CFR 21.177. 2600 sets out a “White List” of safe rubber ingredients for contact with foods and their quantity limits. CFR 21.177. 2600 also has specific instructions to limit extractables from rubber parts intended for repeated use in contact with water or fatty foods. Extractables are chemicals that can be released from the surfaces of components used in the manufacturing or storing of food or drug when exposed to certain liquids and high temperatures.
The FDA CFR 21.177.2600 paragraphs A through D outline the regulations for “Rubber articles for repeated use” in the food industry. In these paragraphs, the FDA lists elastomer materials, vulcanization materials, and other additives approved for use in contact with food. The list also specifies quantitative limits for each ingredient type.
Paragraphs E and F specify instructions to limit extractables from rubber parts intended for repeated use in contact with liquid or fatty foods. Paragraph g also adds that rubber parts in applications handling food should be cleaned before the first use.
What Techno Ad offers
At Techno Ad, we offer a range of trusted and reliable products that meet the requirements of your target markets. Our offerings include both locally produced goods and imported parts, which are guaranteed to comply with the necessary regulations and standards.
It is important to keep in mind that simply having a component made of FDA-approved rubber does not necessarily make it suitable for its intended use. Techno Ad can help you find the rubber compound that meets your specific needs and is also FDA-compliant.
Techno Ad has a wide experience with FDA approval processes and requirements. Our team carefully maintains and manages all documentation related to our products, including FDA certificates, to ensure all certification is valid and up to date.
Are you looking for FDA-approved components for the food industry? Reach out to our experts at Techno Ad today. They’ll provide a solution tailored to your specific needs.
