Not all filaments are suitable for food contact. The issue is not only about the material's composition—which must be non-toxic and free from hazardous plasticizers—but also the surface porosity of FDM parts, which provides an ideal environment for bacterial proliferation if the material is not appropriate.
The food-contact filaments in this collection are selected according to precise criteria: compliance with EC Regulation 10/2011 (plastic materials intended to come into contact with foodstuffs), absence of coloring additives not approved for food use, and—where indicated on the data sheet—suitability for dishwashing or sterilization.
Food-grade PLA is suitable for objects in brief contact with solid foods (cookie cutters, fruit bowls, decorative shapes): however, it is not suitable for hot liquids or prolonged use. Food-safe PETG offers greater chemical and thermal resistance and is the most common choice for containers, glasses, and bottles. Natural Nylon PA12 (without dyes) resists pasteurization temperatures and is used in professional kitchen equipment and food laboratories.
Important note: filament compliance is necessary but not sufficient. For a direct contact application, the finished part must be printed with a stainless steel nozzle (not brass, which contains lead), post-processed to reduce surface roughness, and designed to avoid cavities that are difficult to clean.
On Strato3D, you will find food-safe filaments with complete technical documentation, including CE 10/2011 and FDA CFR 21 compliance certificates where available. Consult the product data sheets for specific suitability details for each material.