FDA Compliant Drums: What does it mean to be FDA compliant?
An FDA-compliant drum stores food products safely.
The United States has strict standards regarding which kinds of packaging materials can come into contact with food. Those standards are determined by the FDA, the Food and Drug Administration. There is a long list of foods that are packaged in plastic, but you may be surprised to learn that there are only a few different kinds of plastics that are appropriate for food storage.
What kinds of plastics can be used for food storage?
We use a lot of plastic in the world today, and a large portion of that plastic is used for storing food, so it makes sense that the most commonly used plastics are the ones that are approved by the FDA for food contact. Food storage plastics include:
- High-density polyethylene
- Low-density polyethylene
- Polyethylene terephthalate
While you may not necessarily know them by name, it’s almost guaranteed that at least one of these materials is within your arm’s reach right now. These plastics were tested and chosen by the FDA because:
- They won’t leach chemicals into food
- They can withstand high and low temperatures
- They can hold up under rigorous cleaning and sanitizing
High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is a highly versatile material, being mildly flexible but also incredibly impact resistant. Due to its versatility, it’s the most common plastic around. You can expect to find HDPE in things like beverage bottles, vitamin and medicine packaging, and most notably, plastic drums like the 55 Gallon Plastic Drum (DRU7130).
Being that HDPE is corrosion-resistant, it doesn’t leach chemicals, and it absorbs very little moisture, it’s incredibly well-suited for food and beverage storage.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE is like HDPE’s little brother. Being slightly less rigid, LDPE has a bit more flexibility. It’s made of the same chemicals as HDPE, but with a lower density (hence, the name). Popular in things like condiment bottles, plastic films and wraps, and beverage rings, LDPE is another form of plastic with several different applications. While we do not offer any entire drums made of LDPE, there are several FDA compliant LDPE drum liners available, as well as small packaging options.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET is an incredibly common, thin, and flexible plastic. Similar to LDPE, but with a “crunchier” texture. You’ve handled PET plastic in things like disposable water bottles and 2-liter soda bottles, or even take-out containers. Not only is PET corrosion-resistant and safe against microorganisms, it won’t even produce any adverse effects if ingested (but we wouldn’t recommend that you eat it). You won’t find any 55-gallon drums made of PET, but you can make some use out of FDA-compliant small bottles.
FDA compliant drums are made of materials that the Food and Drug Association has determined to be safe for food contact. Plastic can be considered safe for contact with food if it doesn’t leach chemicals, it isn’t substantially damaged by high and low temperatures, and it can withstand being cleaned and sanitized.
If a plastic drum is FDA compliant, it is most likely constructed of virgin HDPE, making it safe to store and ship food inside. These regulations are in place to ensure that no harmful chemicals are making their way into our food.
If a drum is FDA compliant, you can rest assured that the barrel is safe for storing and transporting foods, drugs, vitamins, or other products consumed by humans.
Need more information on FDA compliant drums or if you would like to place an order, BASCO has you covered and are here to help. We take pride in offering a nice selection of FDA-compliant drums and will support you with making the right decision.