Does Food-Grade Silicone Leach Chemicals into Food?

Did you know that over 80% of food processing plants use FDA-compliant silicone because it resists oils, moisture, and acids without breaking down? Due to its durability and chemical stability, this material is widely used in industrial food processing for seals, gaskets, tubing, and conveyor belts.

One common concern is if food-grade silicone releases chemicals into food. Research shows that FDA-approved rubber can handle temperatures up to 260°C (500°F) without degrading or leaching harmful substances, and strict FDA regulations on the safety and reliability of food production.

This blog will examine how food-grade silicone leaches chemicals into food and what makes it a reliable option for industrial applications.

What is Food-Grade Silicone?

Food-grade silicone rubber is a non-toxic, high-quality material utilized in industrial food processing. It comprises silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, which provide stability and resistance to extreme conditions. 

FDA-approved tubes is designed for direct contact with food and beverages and is free from fillers, dyes, or plastic additives in lower-grade versions.

Read More- Why is FDA Silicone Rubber Becoming Popular?

How is Food-Grade Silicone Different from Standard Silicone?

The main difference lies in quality and safety.

• Food-grade gasket meets FDA-approved silicone rubber standards and does not release harmful chemicals.
• Standard silicone may have unregulated additives, making it unsuitable for food applications.

Where is Food-Grade Silicone Used?

With high heat resistance, flexibility, and durability, food-grade silicone is widely used in industrial food processing, including-

• Seals and gaskets – Stop leaks in food machinery.
• Tubing – Used in beverage and dairy processing.
• Conveyor belts – Keeps food transportation safe.

This material handles high temperatures, moisture, and chemicals, making it a trusted choice in food and beverage production.

What Makes Silicone FDA-Approved for the food processing industry?

Not all silicone is safe for food and beverage applications. To be considered FDA-compliant, silicone must meet strict safety and quality standards. 

FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 outlines the requirements for rubber articles for repeated food contact; they do not release harmful substances.

Additional Certifications for Food Safety

Beyond FDA certification, other global standards confirm that food-grade silicone meets strict safety regulations.

• EU 1935/2004 – materials do not impact food quality or safety.
• LFGB (Germany’s Food, Commodities, and Feed Code) – Tests for toxic substances in silicone.

Read More – Why FDA-Approved Silicone Rubber is Preferred for Food Industry Gaskets & Seals   

How Manufacturers Ensure Compliance?

Manufacturers follow strict testing and quality control procedures to meet these food safety standards. 

• Material testing for chemical stability at extreme temperatures.
• Screening for contaminants that may affect food safety.
• Certifying compliance with global food safety regulations.

Our materials are tested with USP CLVI & USP CLVI Section 88 & 87 pass, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards for industrial food applications.

Can Food-Grade Silicone Release Chemicals?

Food safe tubing is widely used in FDA food processing because of its chemical stability and resistance to extreme conditions. 

Some plastics and lower-grade materials, such as FDA-compliant silicone, do not break down quickly when exposed to heat, moisture, or food acids.

Does Silicone Break Down Under High Temperatures?

Industrial food processing involves high temperatures, pressure, and chemical exposure. High-temperature silicone rubber sheets can handle temperatures up to 260°C (500°F) without melting, breaking down, or releasing harmful chemicals. This makes them a trusted material for food-grade seals, gaskets, and tubing.

What Do Scientific Studies Say About Leaching Risks?

Research shows that pure, FDA-approved seals do not leach chemicals when manufactured correctly. However, low-quality silicones with fillers or unregulated additives may release substances over time. This is why certified, tested silicone is critical for safe food applications.

By choosing high-quality, FDA-approved materials, industries can reduce the risk of contamination while maintaining safety in food production environments.

What are the Factors That Influence Silicone Safety?

Metal detectable silicone is known for its durability and stability, but its performance depends on several factors. 

The right material quality and application conditions determine that silicone remains safe for industrial food processing. 

1. Temperature Resistance

Industrial food processing often involves high temperatures. High-temperature silicone sponges can tolerate up to 260°C (500°F) without melting, degrading, or releasing harmful chemicals. They remain flexible and intact even in freezing conditions, making them ideal for seals, gaskets, and conveyor systems.

2. Chemical Exposure

Food production involves exposure to acids, oils, and moisture, which can weaken certain materials. Silicone rubber seals are designed to resist these elements, preventing breakdowns, contamination, or unwanted chemical interactions. This makes them a reliable choice for food processing equipment.

3. Quality of the Material

Not all silicone is the same. Pure, FDA-approved gaskets remain stable and safe, while low-quality silicone with fillers and additives may degrade over time. Choosing high-grade, tested materials reduces the risk of leaching, cracking, or contamination, ensuring safety in industrial applications.

What are the Common Applications of Food-Grade Silicone in Industry?

Food-grade silicone rubber is widely used in industrial food processing due to its flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance. It is critical in sealing, transporting, and producing across various sectors.

1. FDA-Approved Gaskets, Seals, and O-Rings

FDA-approved gaskets and silicone rubber seals prevent leaks and contamination in food processing equipment. These components tolerate high temperatures, pressure, and repeated contact with food and liquids without degrading.

2. Silicone Tubing and Strips in Food & Beverage Production

FDA silicone tubing is used in liquid and semi-liquid food processing, including dairy, beverage, and pharmaceutical production. It remains flexible, non-reactive, and resistant to oils, moisture, and acidic substances.

3. Silicone Sponge and Foam for Industrial Sealing

Silicone sponge gaskets and foam sheets are commonly used in food-grade sealing applications. They provide strong insulation, impact absorption, and moisture resistance, making them ideal for packing lines, ovens, and industrial food storage systems.

These high-performance materials help maintain hygiene, efficiency, and safety in food production environments.

Choosing the Right Silicone for Food Applications

The right silicone gasket materials are for safety and compliance in industrial food processing. 

1. How to Test for FDA Compliance

Before use, manufacturers should verify that the silicone meets standards for FDA-approved rubber materials. This can be done through.

• Purity tests – Ensures no harmful additives or fillers.
• Lab verification – Confirm the material meets FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 and other global safety standards.
• Supplier certifications – Reliable manufacturers provide FDA, EU, and LFGB compliance documents.

2. Proper Maintenance to Prevent Contamination

Even food-safe tubing and gaskets can degrade over time. To maintain safety:

• Regular cleaning – Use approved sanitizers to remove buildup.
• Routine inspections – Check for wear, cracks, or discoloration.
• Scheduled replacements – Prevent failures by replacing old components before they degrade.

3. Choosing High-Quality Silicone

Not all silicone is created equal. To avoid contamination risks, always select:

• Pure, FDA-approved silicone – Free from fillers or unregulated chemicals.
• Temperature-resistant materials – Performance in extreme industrial conditions.
• Proven durability – Maintains flexibility and strength under long-term use.

Using certified, high-quality silicone ensures safe and reliable food processing while meeting regulatory standards.

Elastostar Rubber Corporation – Your Trusted Source for FDA-Approved Silicone

Elastostar Rubber Corporation specializes in custom silicone rubber parts for industrial food processing. Our FDA-approved seals meet strict regulatory standards, ensuring safety, durability, and compliance for food applications.

We adhere to FDA 21 CFR 177.2600, EU 1935/2004, and have USP Class VI and USP Sections 88 & 87 certifications. As a trusted rubber product manufacturer, we deliver high-quality, food-safe silicone solutions for industrial needs. Contact us for customized sealing solutions designed to meet your operational requirements.

Recommended Reads

1. Why FDA-Approved Silicone Rubber is Essential for Food Industry Gaskets & Seals 
2. How to Differentiate Between Food-Grade FDA Silicone Rubber & Regular Silicone 
3. Top Applications of FDA Silicone Rubber in Food Processing Industries 

Conclusion

When made correctly, FDA-approved silicone is safe for food processing and does not release harmful chemicals. It also stays stable under heat, moisture, and pressure, making it a reliable choice for industrial use.

Selecting tested, high-quality materials to prevent contamination and adhere to safety standards is crucial. At Elastostar Rubber Corporation, we use FDA-compliant silicone products for food processing applications. Our seals, gaskets, and silicone tubing are designed to handle extreme conditions, helping industries operate smoothly and safely.

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