What Is the Difference Between the Food-Grade Lubricant Classifications H1, H2 And H3?

H1, H2, and H3 are classifications of food-grade lubricants which distinguish them by what they may or may not contain and how they may be used.

H1 lubricants may be used in applications where incidental food contact may potentially occur. Such incidental contact is limited to a trace amount and must not exceed 10 parts per million (i.e., 0.001 percent), or else the food is deemed unsafe for consumption.

H1 lubricant formulations may only contain certain base stocks, additives, and thickeners as specified by FDA regulations (21 CFR 178.3750). Usually, when people refer to “food-grade” lubricants, they are referring to H1 lubricants.

H2 lubricants can be used in food-processing facilities, but only where there is absolutely no possibility of contact with food. Most substances used in industrial lubricant formulations are generally acceptable in H2 lubricants, but there are restrictions relating to toxicology and other considerations. For example, H2 lubricants cannot contain carcinogens, mutagens, teratogens, mineral acids, or intentionally heavy metals such as antimony, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, or selenium.

H3 lubricants are additives and can be used to create food-grade products and are often used in cleaning equipment and preventing rust. The may only contain edible oils that satisfy FDA 21 CFR 172.860 (such as corn, soybean or cottonseed oils), certain mineral oils that meet FDA 21 CFR 172.878, and oils generally recognized as safe (GRAS) under either FDA 21 CFR 182 or FDA 21 CFR 184. H3 lubricants are typically used to clean and prevent rust on hooks, trolleys, and other such equipment.

DuBois Chemicals offers a broad variety of food-grade lubricants for virtually any application. We also can assist you with a lubrication survey to evaluate your lubricant requirements.