Food Grade Silicone

Food grade silicone plays a critical role in industries where safety and hygiene are top priorities. ElastaPro Silicone Sheeting offers high-quality silicone solutions designed for food contact applications. Whether you need sheets or gaskets, this material meets the highest standards and provides excellent performance.

The term food grade silicone does not have a single, universal definition. Rather, it depends on the specific food-contact regulations in the nation or region where the product will be sold and used.

Food Grade Silicone in the United States

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates reusable rubber articles intended for food contact under 21 CFR 177.2600. This part of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) governs permitted silicone elastomers and their safe use. However, it’s important to understand that meeting the FDA rule alone may not suffice, especially in commercial settings.

Many food equipment manufacturers also require compliance with National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) standards. There are two main ones.

  • NSF/ANSI 51 covers materials used in commercial food equipment
  • NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 covers materials contacting potable water

Silicone parts like gaskets, tubing, seals, or components in beverage or espresso machines may need to be independently certified to those NSF standards.

NSF Certified vs. NSF Compliant

When selecting food grade silicone, food equipment manufacturers need also consider the difference between NSF certified and NSF compliant.

  • NSF certified means an independent laboratory has verified that the product meets the relevant standard, and the product bears the official NSF mark.

  • NSF compliant means the manufacturer claims to meet the standard, but without third-party verification.

Food Grade Silicone in Europe

Outside the United States, different regulatory frameworks apply. In Europe, for example, compliance is usually demonstrated via Regulation (EC) 1935/2004, GMP Regulation (EC) 2023/2026, and national rules such as Germany’s BfR). For international food equipment manufacturers, a silicone product marketed in both North America and Europe may need to satisfy U.S. FDA and NSF criteria as well as those of the European Union or individual European countries.

For help selecting food grade silicone, contact ElastaPro.

What Is FDA Silicone?

FDA Silicone complies with CFR 177.2600, a regulatory requirement making sure of the material’s safety for repeated food contact. This makes it suitable for applications such as food grade silicone gaskets, seals, and other components. Known for its durability and flexibility, FDA-compliant silicone maintains performance under extreme temperatures and demanding conditions.

What is BfR XV Silicone?

The focus of the BfR Recommendations on Food Contact Materials was originally on plastic food contact materials. For plastics a mandatory European regulation (Regulation (EU) No 10/2011) has entered into force. Therefore, the BfR Recommendations only contain those substances for which there are no harmonized EU regulations.

What is Food Grade Silicone Sheet?

A food-grade silicone sheet is a specific type of silicone material that is safe for repeated contact with food.  It meets regulatory standards, such as the FDA’s requirements outlined in 21 CFR 177.2600, to ensure it does not leach harmful substances into food during processing, handling, or storage. Key characteristics include resistance to extreme temperatures, flexibility, and a lack of odors or yellowing over time. Food grade silicone sheet from ElastaPro arrives ready for die cutting.

Food Grade Silicone Sheets from ElastaPro

ElastaPro offers food grade silicone sheets in both white FDA Grade Silicone and translucent FDA Grade Silicone options. These materials not only meet food safety regulations but also provide excellent sealing capabilities. Both options are available in a range of durometers, catering to different needs:

  • White FDA Grade Silicone is an excellent choice for food contact applications where a clean and bright appearance is required. This material is available in durometers ranging from 30 to 80, providing a variety of options to suit different levels of flexibility and firmness. Common applications include food grade silicone gaskets, seals, and other components where maintaining an aesthetically pleasing look is important.
  • Translucent FDA Grade Silicone is another versatile option, offering light transmission properties that allow visibility while maintaining a degree of opacity. With durometers ranging from 10 to 80, this material can be adapted for a wide range of uses. It is particularly well-suited for industries that value both functionality and visual appeal in their components.

ElastaPro offers a wide range of color options for FDA Food Grade Silicones. While FDA-grade silicone is typically available in white and translucent to meet regulatory standards, ElastaPro can provide custom color solutions to meet specific project needs.

Whether you’re looking for bright hues, soft pastels, or translucent finishes, our made-to-order silicone materials give you the flexibility to achieve the perfect look without compromising compliance or performance.

With ElastaPro, you don’t just get FDA grade silicone, you get customized options that combine function, safety, and visual appeal.

Industries and Applications

Food grade silicone sheets and gaskets find widespread use across various sectors due to their reliability and versatility.

In the food and beverage processing industry, they serve as effective seals for machinery and packaging equipment, guaranteeing hygiene and preventing contamination. The pharmaceutical sector relies on these materials for applications that demand exceptional cleanliness and safety standards.

In the consumer goods market, food grade silicone is also commonly used in appliances such as blenders and ovens, where heat resistance and durability are essential.

Benefits Silicone Sheets for Food Contact Applications

ElastaPro’s food grade silicone sheets provide several advantages:

  • Heat and Cold Resistance: Withstand extreme temperature ranges, making them ideal for ovens, freezers, and other equipment.
  • Durability: Maintain integrity and performance even in challenging environments.
  • Non-Toxic Properties: Free from harmful substances, guaranteeing safety for food and beverage applications.

These qualities make them suitable for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Food Grade Silicone

What is food grade silicone?

Food grade silicone is a non-toxic, BPA-free elastomer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It is specifically formulated without harmful fillers or additives, making it safe for direct contact with food.

Is food grade silicone safe for cooking and baking?

Yes. It can withstand temperatures from -40°C to 230°C (approx. -40°F to 446°F) without releasing harmful chemicals, making it suitable for ovens, microwaves, freezers, and dishwashers.

How is food grade silicone different from medical-grade silicone?

It’s certified for food-contact safety under FDA guidelines, while medical-grade silicone undergoes stricter biocompatibility testing (ISO 10993, USP Class VI) for use inside the human body.

Does food grade silicone affect taste or smell?

Properly certified materials do not alter the taste, smell, or color of food. If a product has a chemical odor when heated, it may contain fillers and is not truly food-grade.

Is food grade silicone environmentally friendly?

It is more sustainable than single-use plastics because it is durable, reusable, and resistant to degradation, though recycling options are limited compared to plastics.

How long does food grade silicone last?

With proper care, products can last for years without cracking, warping, or leaching chemicals, even under repeated heating and cooling cycles.

Can food grade silicone be used for baby products?

Yes. It is widely used in baby bottle nipples, pacifiers, and feeding utensils because it is soft, safe, and free from toxic additives.

How can I check if silicone is truly food-grade?

Look for FDA compliance labels, LFGB certification (Europe), or trusted manufacturer documentation. Avoid products with strong odors or discoloration when heated, as these may contain unsafe fillers.

What are common applications?

  • Baking molds, mats, and trays
  • Kitchen utensils (spatulas, whisks, tongs)
  • Food storage containers and lids
  • Seals and gaskets in food processing equipment
  • Baby feeding products

Why Choose ElastaPro ?

ElastaPro Silicone Sheeting is committed to providing products that meet strict quality standards. The white FDA Grade Silicone sheet and translucent FDA Grade Silicone sheet options cater to diverse needs, guaranteeing both performance and compliance. With a range of durometers, ElastaPro allows businesses to select materials suited to their specific requirements. Contact us today to learn more or to discuss your specific requirements.

Food Grade Silicone

Food Grade Silicone

Food grade silicone plays a critical role in industries where safety and hygiene are top priorities. ElastaPro Silicone Sheeting offers high-quality silicone solutions designed for food contact applications. Whether you need sheets or gaskets, this material meets the highest standards and provides excellent performance.

The term food grade silicone does not have a single, universal definition. Rather, it depends on the specific food-contact regulations in the nation or region where the product will be sold and used.

Food Grade Silicone in the United States

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates reusable rubber articles intended for food contact under 21 CFR 177.2600. This part of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) governs permitted silicone elastomers and their safe use. However, it’s important to understand that meeting the FDA rule alone may not suffice, especially in commercial settings.

Many food equipment manufacturers also require compliance with National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) standards. There are two main ones.

  • NSF/ANSI 51 covers materials used in commercial food equipment
  • NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 covers materials contacting potable water

Silicone parts like gaskets, tubing, seals, or components in beverage or espresso machines may need to be independently certified to those NSF standards.

NSF Certified vs. NSF Compliant

When selecting food grade silicone, food equipment manufacturers need also consider the difference between NSF certified and NSF compliant.

  • NSF certified means an independent laboratory has verified that the product meets the relevant standard, and the product bears the official NSF mark.

  • NSF compliant means the manufacturer claims to meet the standard, but without third-party verification.

Food Grade Silicone in Europe

Outside the United States, different regulatory frameworks apply. In Europe, for example, compliance is usually demonstrated via Regulation (EC) 1935/2004, GMP Regulation (EC) 2023/2026, and national rules such as Germany’s BfR). For international food equipment manufacturers, a silicone product marketed in both North America and Europe may need to satisfy U.S. FDA and NSF criteria as well as those of the European Union or individual European countries.

For help selecting food grade silicone, contact ElastaPro.

What Is FDA Silicone?

FDA Silicone complies with CFR 177.2600, a regulatory requirement making sure of the material’s safety for repeated food contact. This makes it suitable for applications such as food grade silicone gaskets, seals, and other components. Known for its durability and flexibility, FDA-compliant silicone maintains performance under extreme temperatures and demanding conditions.

What is BfR XV Silicone?

The focus of the BfR Recommendations on Food Contact Materials was originally on plastic food contact materials. For plastics a mandatory European regulation (Regulation (EU) No 10/2011) has entered into force. Therefore, the BfR Recommendations only contain those substances for which there are no harmonized EU regulations.

What is Food Grade Silicone Sheet?

A food-grade silicone sheet is a specific type of silicone material that is safe for repeated contact with food.  It meets regulatory standards, such as the FDA’s requirements outlined in 21 CFR 177.2600, to ensure it does not leach harmful substances into food during processing, handling, or storage. Key characteristics include resistance to extreme temperatures, flexibility, and a lack of odors or yellowing over time. Food grade silicone sheet from ElastaPro arrives ready for die cutting.

Food Grade Silicone Sheets from ElastaPro

ElastaPro offers food grade silicone sheets in both white FDA Grade Silicone and translucent FDA Grade Silicone options. These materials not only meet food safety regulations but also provide excellent sealing capabilities. Both options are available in a range of durometers, catering to different needs:

  • White FDA Grade Silicone is an excellent choice for food contact applications where a clean and bright appearance is required. This material is available in durometers ranging from 30 to 80, providing a variety of options to suit different levels of flexibility and firmness. Common applications include food grade silicone gaskets, seals, and other components where maintaining an aesthetically pleasing look is important.
  • Translucent FDA Grade Silicone is another versatile option, offering light transmission properties that allow visibility while maintaining a degree of opacity. With durometers ranging from 10 to 80, this material can be adapted for a wide range of uses. It is particularly well-suited for industries that value both functionality and visual appeal in their components.

ElastaPro offers a wide range of color options for FDA Food Grade Silicones. While FDA-grade silicone is typically available in white and translucent to meet regulatory standards, ElastaPro can provide custom color solutions to meet specific project needs.

Whether you’re looking for bright hues, soft pastels, or translucent finishes, our made-to-order silicone materials give you the flexibility to achieve the perfect look without compromising compliance or performance.

With ElastaPro, you don’t just get FDA grade silicone, you get customized options that combine function, safety, and visual appeal.

Industries and Applications

Food grade silicone sheets and gaskets find widespread use across various sectors due to their reliability and versatility.

In the food and beverage processing industry, they serve as effective seals for machinery and packaging equipment, guaranteeing hygiene and preventing contamination. The pharmaceutical sector relies on these materials for applications that demand exceptional cleanliness and safety standards.

In the consumer goods market, food grade silicone is also commonly used in appliances such as blenders and ovens, where heat resistance and durability are essential.

Benefits Silicone Sheets for Food Contact Applications

ElastaPro’s food grade silicone sheets provide several advantages:

  • Heat and Cold Resistance: Withstand extreme temperature ranges, making them ideal for ovens, freezers, and other equipment.
  • Durability: Maintain integrity and performance even in challenging environments.
  • Non-Toxic Properties: Free from harmful substances, guaranteeing safety for food and beverage applications.

These qualities make them suitable for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Food Grade Silicone

What is food grade silicone?

Food grade silicone is a non-toxic, BPA-free elastomer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It is specifically formulated without harmful fillers or additives, making it safe for direct contact with food.

Is food grade silicone safe for cooking and baking?

Yes. It can withstand temperatures from -40°C to 230°C (approx. -40°F to 446°F) without releasing harmful chemicals, making it suitable for ovens, microwaves, freezers, and dishwashers.

How is food grade silicone different from medical-grade silicone?

It’s certified for food-contact safety under FDA guidelines, while medical-grade silicone undergoes stricter biocompatibility testing (ISO 10993, USP Class VI) for use inside the human body.

Does food grade silicone affect taste or smell?

Properly certified materials do not alter the taste, smell, or color of food. If a product has a chemical odor when heated, it may contain fillers and is not truly food-grade.

Is food grade silicone environmentally friendly?

It is more sustainable than single-use plastics because it is durable, reusable, and resistant to degradation, though recycling options are limited compared to plastics.

How long does food grade silicone last?

With proper care, products can last for years without cracking, warping, or leaching chemicals, even under repeated heating and cooling cycles.

Can food grade silicone be used for baby products?

Yes. It is widely used in baby bottle nipples, pacifiers, and feeding utensils because it is soft, safe, and free from toxic additives.

How can I check if silicone is truly food-grade?

Look for FDA compliance labels, LFGB certification (Europe), or trusted manufacturer documentation. Avoid products with strong odors or discoloration when heated, as these may contain unsafe fillers.

What are common applications?

  • Baking molds, mats, and trays
  • Kitchen utensils (spatulas, whisks, tongs)
  • Food storage containers and lids
  • Seals and gaskets in food processing equipment
  • Baby feeding products

Why Choose ElastaPro ?

ElastaPro Silicone Sheeting is committed to providing products that meet strict quality standards. The white FDA Grade Silicone sheet and translucent FDA Grade Silicone sheet options cater to diverse needs, guaranteeing both performance and compliance. With a range of durometers, ElastaPro allows businesses to select materials suited to their specific requirements. Contact us today to learn more or to discuss your specific requirements.