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Food & FDA

Food and beverage applications call for compounds conforming to FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 and EC 1935/2004. We recommend EPDM, silicone (VMQ) or FKM — conformity is always a property of the specific compound, not of the material as such.

Recommended materials

EPDM, VMQ, FKM

Food-grade O-rings must comply with FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 (rubber), EC 1935/2004 (EU), and where required 3-A Sanitary Standards or USP Class VI. Typical applications: breweries, dairies, wineries, bakeries, beverage fillers.

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Frequently asked questions about this industry

What certifications does a food-contact O-ring need?
In the EU the baseline is EC 1935/2004 (food contact) and EC 10/2011 for plastics. In the US, FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 for rubber. For dairies and aseptic lines, 3-A Sanitary 18-03 is also required. Send us the application and we will recommend the minimum required combination of certifications.
EPDM or silicone (VMQ) — when to use which in food applications?
EPDM is the standard for CIP/SIP cleaning — it resists hot water, steam, and alkalis. Choose silicone (VMQ) where a wide temperature range (−60 to +200 °C) and physiological harmlessness matter, for example when filling hot beverages. Note: neither resists mineral oils — for fats and oils choose FKM or FVMQ.
Do O-rings withstand CIP/SIP cleaning and hot steam?
Yes — peroxide-cured EPDM handles CIP alkalis and SIP steam at normal cleaning temperatures. For steam temperatures above 120 °C or aggressive disinfection cycles, FFKM is more suitable. Service life depends on cycle frequency; replace the rings preventively per the maintenance schedule.
Why can't I use a plain black NBR ring in food applications?
Plain NBR may not carry a food-contact certification, and its additives can migrate into the product. Always use a material with declared food-grade compliance (FDA / EC 1935/2004) and in the colour customary for the facility. On request we also supply a declaration of conformity for the batch.

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