Q: My mom wants me to make her a little box to carry her medical pills, and I’m not sure if the PLA plastic would be ok to store opened pills. Is it ok??
– From a Reddit user
3D printing opens up a world of possibilities, letting us create just about anything—from replacement hardware and toys to household essentials. But when it comes to food-related items like utensils or containers, one question often comes up: is PLA food safe?
PLA, a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, is widely used in packaging, 3D printing, and even medical implants. While the freedom and convenience of 3D printing might make it tempting to create anything you need at home, it’s crucial to know what materials you’re working with—especially if those items will touch food or be used in your kitchen.
What is Food Safe?
Understanding food safety begins with some key definitions:
- Food grade: A material safe for human consumption or direct contact with food.
- Food safe: A food-grade material that meets specific requirements to avoid food-safety hazards.
- Food contact surfaces: Any surface in direct contact with food, designed to be non-toxic, durable, and able to withstand cleaning and sanitization.
Food safety involves managing migration, where tiny particles transfer between materials, such as from a 3D printer to the printed object, and eventually to food. Migration is a bigger concern for items with prolonged food contact, like containers, utensils, or molds.
In the U.S., FDA guidelines (CFR 21) define food-safe materials, while the EU follows guideline 10/2011 . These materials must resist wear, be non-absorbent, and free from harmful migration under normal use. Always verify certifications in the technical datasheets, not just “compliance” labels.
| Filament | FDA Approval | EU Compliance | Smoothable | Dishwasher Safe | Safe for Hot Liquids |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | Approved | NA | No | No | No |
| Innofil3D PLA | Approved except red, orange, pink, apricot skin, grey, and magenta | Approved except the same colors | No | No | No |
| Copper3D PLActive Antibacterial PLA | Approved | Compliant | No | No | No |
| Purement Antibacterial PLA | Approved | Approved | No | No | No |
| PLA-HT | Approved | NA | No | Yes | Yes |
Food-safe 3D printing filaments include PLA, PP, PET-G, co-polyester, and nylon-6, among others. However, PLA, PET, and nylon may distort in dishwashers. For hot liquids, co-polyester, high-temperature PLA, or PEI are best. Some studies suggest potential safety concerns due to material degradation during the 3D printing process.
Safety Concerns with PLA
While PLA is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food contact due to its natural lactic acid-based composition, 3D printing with PLA introduces several safety concerns. These issues arise from additives, the printing process, bacteria contamination, and filament handling.
First, PLA additives like dyes and pigments can compromise food safety. Natural, undyed PLA is recommended for food-related items, and consulting safety data sheets for specific filaments is crucial.
Second, non-food-safe printheads pose risks. Standard brass nozzles may contain lead, which can leach into prints. For food-safe printing, stainless steel nozzles are preferred.
Third, bacteria contamination is a major concern. PLA’s porous surface traps moisture and food particles, fostering bacterial growth. Cleaning is challenging since PLA cannot withstand high temperatures like boiling water or dishwashers. This makes disposable use safer for food contact items.
Lastly, filament contamination occurs when non-food-safe materials previously used in the 3D printer leave residual particles. A dedicated printer for food-safe projects minimizes this risk.
To further reduce hazards, food-safe coatings like FDA-approved resins can seal prints. However, these coatings may degrade over time. While PLA offers versatility, understanding and addressing these risks is essential for safe, long-term food contact applications.
PLA in 3D Printing for Food-related Products
When creating food-safe 3D printed items with PLA, caution is key. Applying a food-safe coating or sealant is one of the most effective ways to ensure safety, and two popular options are epoxy resins and silicone.
Epoxy Resins
Epoxy resins provide a reliable seal for 3D printed surfaces, preventing bacteria buildup. However, it’s essential to use an FDA-certified food-safe epoxy resin. Handle uncured resin carefully with gloves and masks, as it contains toxic materials in liquid form. Once cured, epoxy-coated PLA prints have shown significantly less bacterial growth compared to untreated prints, even after 14 days of regular use.
Silicone Coating
Silicone coating is another excellent choice. Silicone seals PLA’s pores, creating a watertight surface and is safer to handle than epoxy. For long-term food-safe applications, food-grade silicone casting offers a durable solution. This technique is ideal for making items like custom ice cube trays or chocolate molds by 3D printing a master and casting it in silicone.
While coatings enhance safety, they can degrade over time, especially under frequent washing or exposure to heat. Always check whether the coating is dishwasher safe and suitable for contact with hot foods. Regular inspection ensures your 3D printed kitchenware remains safe for use.
FAQs About Is PLA Food Safe
1. Can I Use PLA for Cold Food Storage?
Yes, PLA is generally safe for storing cold, dry foods. However, avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, as PLA can degrade over time.
2. Are All PLA Filaments Food Safe?
Not all PLA filaments are food-safe. Look for brands explicitly labeled as food-grade, free from harmful additives, and compliant with FDA or EU food safety standards.
3. How Can I Sterilize PLA 3D Prints?
PLA is not heat-resistant and cannot withstand boiling or dishwashers. Instead, clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives, as they can damage the surface and introduce contamination risks.
Conclusion: Is PLA Food Safe?
So, is PLA safe for 3D printing utensils and containers? The short answer: it can be, but with some conditions. PLA is generally safe for food contact when made and used properly, and its eco-friendly nature makes it a great alternative to traditional plastics in certain cases.
That said, you need to watch out for things like added dyes or chemicals, bacteria hiding in those tiny 3D-printed grooves, and how PLA handles heat (spoiler: not very well). If you’re printing something for food use, take extra precautions—it’s always better to play it safe!