Food processing, packaging, handling and storage plant maintenance personnel use food-grade lubricants. Food-grade lubricants must perform the same technical functions as any other lubricant: provide protection against wear, friction, corrosion and oxidation, dissipate heat and transfer power, be compatible with rubber and other sealing materials, as well as provide a sealing effect in some cases.
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In addition, different applications within the food and drugs business demand that lubricants resist degradation from food products, chemicals and water/steam, must exhibit a neutral behavior toward plastics and elastomers, and have the ability to dissolve sugars. These oils must also comply with food/health and safety regulations, as well as be physiologically inert, tasteless, odorless and internationally approved.
What are the categories for Food-Grade Lubricants
The (USDA) United States Department of Agriculture created the original food-grade designations H1, H2 and H3. The approval of a new lubricant and its registration in one of these categories depends on the list of the ingredients.
H1 Food-grade lubricants are used in food-processing environments where there is the possibility of incidental food contact.
H2 Non food-grade lubricants are used on equipment and machine parts in locations where there is no possibility of contact.
H3 Food-grade lubricants are typically edible oils, used to prevent rust on hooks, trolleys and similar equipment.
Who approves and categories Food-Grade Lubricants?
Approval and compliance was, in the past, the responsibility of the USDA. The agency is considered an internationally renowned authority on consumer safety issues with regard to the food-processing industry. However, since September 30, 1998, the USDA has no longer been issuing registration of food-grade lubricants or reviewing federally inspected meat and poultry process facilities.
What is the Future of Food-Grade Lubricant approval?
Registrations granted prior to this date will remain in effect, and as before, USDA H1 and H2 still stand as a recognized approval for food and drug suitability. In fact, many lubricant manufacturers still aspire to the USDA H1 and H2 categories and approval process, and supply certification from their boards of directors to guarantee that claim.
The National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) has evolved globally to succeed the USDA. NSF International, The Public Health and Safety Company, is an independent, nonprofit organization that has been committed to public health, safety and protection of the environment for more than 55 years.
Industrial Supplies - Industrial Sales>
These are just some of the thousands of industrial supplies that Hi-Line salesmen carry on their trucks. Every Hi-Line representative manages a territory, similar to a route sales system, where quality electrical and maintenance supplies are delivered directly to your bins. If you love industrial parts, working with people, and being your own boss, then contact Hi-Line at industrialsales@hi-line.com for a rewarding career in industrial sales.