FDA-Approved Plastics for Food Safety

When discussing plastics for food packaging, it’s important to distinguish between “food-grade” and “food-safe” materials. Both terms are closely related, yet they serve different purposes. Food-grade plastics refer to materials safe for food contact according to FDA standards. However, these materials must be used as intended in their specific applications to be truly food-safe. For example, a food-grade container designed for cold food storage may not be suitable for hot foods, as high temperatures can alter the material’s properties, potentially releasing harmful substances.

Piedmont Plastics only supplies FDA-approved food-grade materials that meet stringent safety and regulatory guidelines. Our customers can trust that each product is designed for safe food contact, but we also recommend using each plastic type within its specified limits to avoid safety risks. The commitment to quality and regulatory compliance emphasizes our dedication to supporting safe and effective food packaging solutions.

The Primary Plastics Used in Food Packaging

Different plastics serve specific roles in food packaging based on their physical properties, durability, and safety standards.

Here is an in-depth look at the main types of plastics that dominate the food packaging industry:

1. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): This material is valued for its impressive strength-to-density ratio, lightweight structure, and high impact resistance, making it a top choice for milk jugs, juice bottles, and grocery bags. HDPE is resistant to moisture, chemicals, and impact, allowing it to withstand potential damage from transportation and handling. It is a staple in long-term food storage due to its durability and easy sterilization at high temperatures. HDPE is recyclable, though the FDA must re-evaluate recycled HDPE before use in new food contact applications.

2. Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a durable, heat-resistant plastic ideal for packaging foods that may be microwaved or exposed to high temperatures. It’s used in yogurt cups, sour cream containers, and reusable food storage items. Its resilience and high melting point allow it to maintain structural integrity, even under frequent bending or exposure to heat, making it suitable for microwaveable food containers. Polypropylene is widely accepted as a food-safe option, with the added benefit of recyclability in many local programs.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC/uPVC): PVC is known for its strength and chemical resistance, making it an ideal choice for a variety of applications. Additionally, food-safe versions like unplasticized PVC (uPVC) are manufactured without harmful chemicals and are used in applications such as tamper-resistant medicine packaging and shrink wraps. With its flexibility and oil resistance, uPVC remains popular for food applications requiring protective barriers, though recyclability is still limited.

4. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE): LDPE’s soft, flexible nature makes it an ideal material for bread bags, wraps, and squeezable food containers. It’s valued for its durability, moisture resistance, and ability to create lightweight packaging that’s easy to handle. LDPE can be reused in some cases, but its recyclability depends on local facilities, as not all accept flexible films.

5. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Known for its strength, lightweight structure, and clarity, PET is one of the most popular plastics in food packaging. It is commonly used in soft drink bottles, salad dressing containers, and peanut butter jars. PET’s antimicrobial properties and corrosion resistance make it ideal for packaging acidic foods and beverages. Additionally, PET is recyclable, reducing its environmental impact when properly processed. However, while PET is safe for cold or ambient-temperature foods, it should not be reused or exposed to high temperatures.

Why Sustainability Matters

While plastics offer undeniable benefits in terms of durability, contamination prevention, and food preservation, they also come with challenges. For example, certain grades of PVC have limited recyclability and can contribute to environmental concerns. High temperatures can alter certain plastics, leading to chemical leaching, emphasizing the importance of using food-safe materials as intended. Furthermore, as concerns over BPA (often found in polycarbonate plastics) grow, manufacturers now seek BPA-free alternatives for food packaging to meet consumer demand for safer options.

Piedmont Plastics is committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly alternatives like plant-based PLA, a biodegradable plastic made from renewable sources like corn starch. We also provide custom recycling programs to help our customers minimize waste and reduce their environmental footprint. By selecting recyclable materials and sustainable options, companies can take significant steps toward a more eco-conscious approach to food packaging.

Why Choose Piedmont Plastics

With over 50 years of experience, Piedmont Plastics has become a trusted partner in the plastics distribution industry. Our commitment to quality, regulatory compliance, and extensive inventory means our customers can count on us for reliable, food-safe solutions. With locations across North America, we provide local support and timely delivery to meet the demands of businesses nationwide.

Our team of plastic specialists is here to guide you in selecting the most suitable material for your application. Whether you need PET bottles for beverages, HDPE containers for bulk food storage, or customized film conversion services, Piedmont Plastics has the expertise and resources to support your business.