As food safety has become increasingly important in recent years, food manufacturers need to ensure they are using the right equipment to maintain the integrity of their products, and of course, to comply with appropriate food safety legislation.
One of the most critical components of any food processing line is the flexible connectors that transport the product between pieces of equipment. These locations are potentially high-risk for product leakage, build-up, and contamination. Because they are made from pliable materials like polyurethane or rubber, they are also more prone to abrasion from product flow and movement.
Food-grade flexible connectors are classified as safe for use in food-grade applications. These connectors are designed to be non-toxic, withstand extreme temperatures, and be easy to clean and sanitise.
Food-grade connectors are made from materials that are safe for use in food processing, most commonly plastic and rubber-based. These materials are non-reactive, meaning they won't interact with the food products they come in contact with, ensuring that the food remains safe for consumption.
However, there are important design and composition requirements that must be met for flexible connectors to be considered food-grade, depending on the manufacturing location.
The term "food-grade" typically refers to materials and articles that are safe for contact with food and do not pose a risk to human health. To consider a flexible connector food-grade in any country, it must meet specific requirements and comply with relevant regulations.
Broadly speaking, there are two major territories with food safety regulations used as references for other markets: Europe (EU) and the USA.
While there is no specific EU regulation solely dedicated to food-grade flexible connectors, the materials used in these connectors should comply with the general ‘food contact’ regulations, such as Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 and Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011.
Here's a brief overview of each regulation:
Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 on Plastic Materials and Articles Intended to Come into Contact with Food: This specifically focuses on the safety of plastic materials and articles intended for food contact. It establishes rules for the use of plastic materials, additives, and substances that may be present in the final product. The regulation aims to ensure that the migration of harmful substances from plastics into food is minimised and controlled.
In the USA, USDA, FDA, and 3-A are often quoted when talking about food safety and compliance in the American food manufacturing industry. They are all designed to ensure the safety and quality of food products, but they apply to different industry sectors and have distinct sets of standards.
So, what is the difference between USDA, FDA, and 3-A compliance?
Here’s a brief summary:
Any flexible connector that is used in dairy processing must comply with these requirements.
Although it is mandatory to comply with FDA requirements, it should be noted that the FDA will only issue a certificate of compliance for a product if it is made in the USA.
The 3-A Sanitary Standards is a comprehensive guide to ensure the hygienic design and construction of equipment, including connectors, used in food processing and handling. These standards cover various aspects, including materials, surface finishes, cleanability, and overall design, to prevent contamination and promote food safety.
Achieving 3-A compliance means a connector or piece of equipment meets the stringent requirements of the 3-A Sanitary Standards, indicating it is designed and manufactured to minimise the risk of product contamination and support proper sanitation practices.
Compliance with 3-A standards is often considered a benchmark for quality and safety in the food manufacturing industry, as manufacturers must undergo a rigorous authorisation process, including compliance with the FDA regulations, to be granted use of the 3-A symbol.
Compliance with industry standards is crucial when selecting food-grade connectors. However, it's not enough to select connectors that comply with the minimum regulatory requirements. You should select connectors that exceed industry standards and are designed to reduce the risk of product contamination, ensuring the safety and quality of your food products.
BFM®️ fitting understands the need for stringent food safety and compliance, particularly for multinational companies operating across a variety of markets. That’s why BFM®️'s products have been independently tested and conform to leading internationally recognised health and safety legislation.
Contact us today if you've got concerns about the hygiene and compliance of the flexible connectors in your food processes, and we can show you why BFM® fittings are the cleaner, safer choice.