When sourcing storage for your ingredients, products, or bulk goods, finding food grade plastic containers is the most important factor to consider. It signifies that the plastic material is safe for direct contact with food and beverages, ensuring no harmful toxins or chemicals leach into the contents.
What is food grade plastic bucket?
Food grade is a classification given to materials that meet stringent safety standards set by regulatory bodies. For a plastic bucket to be classified as food grade, it must:
- Not contaminate food: The plastic must not transfer harmful chemicals, toxins or substances into the food.
- Be free of toxic substances: The material itself must not contain chemicals that are known to be unsafe for human consumption.
- Be durable and cleanable: The container must be able to withstand regular cleaning and sanitising.
How do I know if a plastic is food grade?
The cup and fork symbol is an internationally recognised symbol to indicate that the material is safe for food contact. This symbol will normally be found embossed on the bottom of food grade plastic buckets and tubs.
Food grade plastics come in various forms, and choosing the right one depends on what you plan to use it for.
Common food grade plastics
| Plastic Type (Resin Identification Code) | Common Uses | Key Properties |
| HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene – Code 2) | Food grade plastic buckets, drums, milk jugs, butter tubs. | Highly durable, rigid, excellent chemical resistance, and wide temperature tolerance. |
| PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate – Code 1) | Beverage bottles, jars, and some containers. | Clear, strong, and light-weight. Excellent for liquids and single-use applications. |
| PP (Polypropylene – Code 5) | Take-out containers, yogurt tubs, and reusable containers. | Heat-tolerant (often microwavable), flexible, and high chemical resistance. |
Here at ITP Packaging, all of our plastic buckets are made from PP and HDPE, providing a safe, reliable, FDA approved food grade plastic storage.
Food grade plastic containers from ITP Packaging
Whether you’re running a commercial kitchen, a catering business or a large-scale manufacturing site, investing in high-quality food grade plastic buckets and food grade plastic tubs is essential for product integrity and consumer safety. Browse our wide selection of certified containers to find the perfect solution for your storage needs.
Contact us
At ITP Packaging, our range of plastic buckets are food safe, recyclable and affordable.
Whether you are replacing your existing containers or reorganising your kitchen setup, we have the expertise and products to help you.
