Plastic in Contact with Food and Beverages
The food industry places high demands on materials. Which plastics are suitable when hygiene and safety are crucial?
Material Selection for Different Applications
PTFE is often used in conveyor belts due to its unique properties. It has a good non-stick quality, meaning materials don't adhere to it. Additionally, it has high chemical resistance and can withstand high temperatures. We offer PTFE as sheets, round rods, hollow bars, film, and fabric.
Polyethylene (PE) is another common material in conveyor belts. Newly produced polyethylene is approved for contact with food as a standard. Depending on the application, HDPE or UHMWPE may be suitable. If the food doesn't have direct contact with the plastic, PE Bulk UV can be used, especially if good wear and sliding properties are desired.
For rollers or machine parts such as wheels and gears, PA6 E FG (nylon) is a good option. This material is available as sheets, round rods, and hollow bars.
PEEK UD and PEEK MD are other materials that can be used in machine components. PEEK MD is detectable with a metal detector and has a classic blue color for visual recognition. PEEK UD is ultra-detectable and can be detected with both a metal detector and X-ray; this material is also blue.
Plastic in Commercial and Restaurant Kitchens
In commercial and restaurant kitchens, hygiene requirements are extremely high. Strong detergents are often used, which places high demands on the plastic's chemical resistance.
Equipment in kitchens is often on wheels. Carts of various kinds are common. A stainless-steel bracket with wheels made of PA6 is an excellent solution. If you want a wheel with a smoother ride, LC-RF PA6/PUR can be used. The company can also help you with cutting boards in the desired size in HDPE. The material is available in several colors, such as natural white, black, blue, green, red, brown, and gray. HDPE can also be used as bumper strips in kitchens, corridors, or warehouses.
Since Covid-19, the need for protection has increased. Sneeze guards in transparent plastic are common in checkout areas. There's also a need in the food industry to be able to see processes without touching. PETG is a good choice, as it's food-grade, transparent, and impact-resistant.
Plastic for Food Packaging
Reusable packaging is a good idea for the environment. We don't sell disposable products or consumer plastic.
Together with our partner, we can help you with material, design, and manufacturing for smart and environmentally friendly choices.
Which Material Suits Your Business?
HDPE, UHMWPE, and PA6 E FG are common plastics in the food industry. PETG is a good choice for touch protection. We're happy to help you choose the right material for the right application. Contact us for support and advice, so we can maximize function and lifespan.
Have you considered which plastic materials best suit your needs?
Plastic Materials for the Food Industry