What Is a Food-Grade Lubricant? The Differences Between H1, H2, and 3H
A single 'food class' tag in food facilities does not disclose all applications. H1 refers to different contact scenarios of H2 and 3H codes. The correct category should be determined according to where and how to use the lubricant; the current registration of the product should be verified from the official directory.
H1: Possible to contact the coin
H1 category is intended for the use of lubricant in the areas of processing, which is likely to contact accidental with food. The contact is not a normal and intended process; the amount of application with equipment design should minimize it. Technical performance requirements should also be met in points such as chain, bearing, gear or pneumatic system.
H2: area where contact is not possible
H2 is the lubricant category used in equipment and locations where there is no possibility of contact with food and food components. H2 does not say that the product is automatically higher or low performance; it defines the usage area. When the line changes the settlement, the risk of contact should be reevaluated due to splash, flow or maintenance intervention.
3H: direct contact separator application
3H is defined for separators used to prevent food product from sticking to hard surface. Cutting table, grill or similar process surfaces can be sampled to it. The product can record both 3H and H1; but the purpose of the application should be appropriate to the category of quantity and cleaning procedure.
Prevent misunderstandings
NSF registration does not show that a product is suitable at any temperature, every load or every material. Also the certificate or registration scope is limited to product name and formulation. Label, TDS, SDS and official listing should be controlled together; color coded storage and application equipment should be used in the facility.
Application control list
- Classification the contact scenario as H1, H2 or 3H.
- Check the current product record from the official directory.
- Confirm technical performance separately with category.
- Take the application equipment with color code.
- Renew the risk assessment when field layout changes.
Conclusion
H1, H2 and 3H product quality ranking is not the categories of use. The right choice requires contact scenario, equipment need and registration verification together.
Manstechnic approach
Manstechnic matches product category with lubrication point on site and supports documentation layout.