PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic and a common material in FDM printing. It has a low extrusion temperature and is inexpensive. In addition, because PLA is extracted from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugar cane, it has a low impact on the environment during the 3D printing process. So can PLA materials be used in 3D printing to make parts that can contact food? This article will discuss the food safety of PLA and what you need to pay attention to.

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Is PLA food safe?

PLA is generally considered food safe and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food contact applications. This means that as long as it is used according to recommended guidelines, PLA can be used to safely store and hold food.

In addition, there are several factors to consider:

1. Temperature considerations

Compared to traditional plastics, PLA has a lower melting point, usually around 60°C (140°F). This means that PLA containers should not be used to hold hot food or liquids, as they may deform or melt. In addition, PLA should not be used in microwaves or traditional ovens.

2. Additives and colorants

Pure PLA is food safe, but additives and colorants used in some PLA products may not be. Make sure any PLA products you use for food are labeled food safe and do not contain harmful additives.

https://clevercreations.org/is-pla-filament-food-safe-safety/

Food safety issues in 3D printing

Even if the PLA material used is food safe, the 3D printing process may still introduce food safety risks:

Hot end contamination: The printer's hot end may deposit a small amount of material during the extrusion of the filament, causing cross contamination. It is recommended to use a hot end specifically for food safe materials and only use it for food grade safe filament printing, and make sure it is made of stainless steel to avoid lead contamination and is also easier to clean.

Layer lines and pores: Layer lines and surface pores created during FDM printing may breed bacteria, increasing the risk of food poisoning. In addition, PLA is not heat resistant and cannot be sterilized at high temperatures.

Suggestions for improving food safety

Sealing and coating: Use food grade epoxy to seal the surface of 3D printed objects, fill layer lines and gaps, reduce the risk of bacterial growth, and make it easier to clean. Please make sure that the epoxy resin must also be food grade.

Proper cleaning: Do not use PLA objects with hot food or liquids, and do not wash them in the dishwasher to prevent deformation or melting. Non-abrasive soap and warm water can be used to clean PLA prints.

In summary, PLA materials can be used in food contact applications when used correctly. However, users must pay attention to temperature limits, additive ingredients, and potential risks in the 3D printing process. If you are looking for high-quality PLA materials and professional 3D printing services, JLC3DP provides reliable solutions. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to contact our support team.