Food safety standards: NSF and USDA approvals

In food and beverage manufacturing, lubricants and other maintenance products must meet strict food safety requirements. Two of the most recognised approval systems in this area are NSF and USDA. Understanding these standards helps maintenance teams choose the right products and remain compliant with regulations.

NSF approvals explained

NSF is an independent, global organisation that develops standards and certifies products used in food processing environments. Today, NSF is the primary authority for food-grade lubricant registration.

NSF registrations classify lubricants based on their intended use and the level of potential food contact:

• H1
  Lubricants approved for incidental food contact. These products may be used in areas where contact with food cannot be completely avoided, such as conveyor bearings or mixers above open product.
• H2
  Lubricants that are not intended to come into contact with food. They are used in enclosed or non-food areas, such as gearboxes or hydraulic systems away from production zones.
• H3
  Soluble oils used to prevent rust on hooks, trolleys and similar equipment that may come into direct contact with food, often in meat processing environments.

NSF also registers cleaners and greases, ensuring formulations are made from approved base oils and additives that are safe at defined exposure levels.

USDA approvals and their relevance

USDA approvals were historically used to evaluate non-food compounds, including lubricants, in food processing plants in the United States. While the USDA no longer actively registers lubricants, its classifications laid the foundation for modern food-grade standards.

Today, NSF has effectively taken over this role, and many NSF categories directly correspond to the former USDA classifications. As a result, when a lubricant is NSF H1 registered, it meets or exceeds the intent of the original USDA requirements.

Why these approvals matter in practice

Using NSF-registered food-grade lubricants supports:

• Compliance with food safety audits such as HACCP and ISO 22000
• Reduced risk of product contamination and recalls
• Clear documentation for inspectors and quality managers
• Safer maintenance practices for equipment operating near food

For facilities supplying international markets, NSF approvals are especially valuable because they are widely recognised across regions and regulatory frameworks.

Key takeaway for Lubripedia readers

NSF and USDA approvals are not just labels on a lubricant container. They represent a structured approach to risk management in food production. Selecting the correct NSF category, applying lubricants correctly and maintaining proper documentation are essential steps in protecting food safety, ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding brand reputation.