Ensuring Safety: How to Differentiate Food Grade from Non-Food Grade IBC Totes

One of the most revolutionary inventions in shipping, storage and transportation is Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), commonly known as totes. They are indispensable for holding and moving liquids, pourable solid materials, and even bulk parts. 

Food-grade IBC totes offer a secure and hygienic means of storing and transporting edible goods throughout the supply chain. When it comes to the food industry, ensuring the safety and integrity of products is the number one priority. Food producers and shippers must be able to distinguish between food-grade totes and totes unsuitable for food. This article will answer the question, “How to tell if an IBC tote is food grade?” 

Understanding IBC Totes

What does IBC stand for? IBC stands for Intermediate Bulk Container. They are cube-shaped, reusable containers ranging in capacity from 275 gallons to 330 gallons. 

Food-grade totes mostly use either high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or stainless steel. The correct material depends on the intended use and the specific industry requirements. Only food-grade totes meet safety and hygiene standards for food and potable water shipping and storage.

One of the main advantages of IBC totes is their durability and resistance to impact, making them suitable for harsh environments and long-distance transportation. The tote’s modular design allows for easy handling, loading, and stacking.

Key Features of Food Grade IBC Totes

Food-grade IBC totes meet the stringent standards and regulations set by the DOT and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In the EU, they must meet Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000 standards.

Here are the key features that distinguish food-grade IBC totes from their non-food-grade counterparts:

Key Features of Food-Grade IBC Totes	Key Features of Non-Food Grade IBC Totes
Made from food-contact materials or food-contacting substances (FCS)	Made from non-food-safe materials
Compliance with FDA and Food-Grade Standards	Does not meet FDA or Food-Grade Standards
Designed for storing and transporting edible goods	Intended for non-edible materials
Easy to clean and sanitize	Less emphasis on cleanability and sanitization
Enhanced contamination protection	Lower contamination protection
Prolonged contact with food products	Not intended for food products
Dedicated to the food industry	Versatile for various industrial applications

Food grade IBC totes are made from approved materials like virgin HDPE, stainless steel, and food-grade resins to prevent leaching and flavor transfer. Their smooth interior surfaces inhibit bacterial growth and are easier to clean and sanitize. 

Some products require venting to release pressure build-up. Learn more in this article, When to Vent IBC Totes.

How to Tell if an IBC Tote is Food Grade

The definitive source of food-grade contact substances lies with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. You can search a database containing 1,687 chemicals and compounds in the Inventory of Effective Food Contact Substance (FCS) Notifications.

The best way to identify HDPE food-grade totes is the permanent UN/DOT markings molded into the sidewall. Stainless steel totes are generally safe for food. Look for symbols or labels such as “Food Grade” or “Safe for Food Contact.”

However, if reusing a food-grade tote, it must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before being used for food again. If you are buying a used tote, get detailed documentation about the tote’s previous contents from the seller.

Addressing Common Questions Around Food Grade IBC Totes

If you are considering purchasing a food-grade IBC tote, consider these questions:

Is the IBC Tank Food Grade? 

Not all IBC tanks are food grade. Food grade IBC tanks are specifically designed and manufactured to safely store and transport food, beverages, and other consumables. They use FDA-approved materials to ensure they meet food-grade standards.

How Can I Determine If My Water Tank Is Food Grade? 

Food-grade IBC tanks typically display certifications such as FDA approval, NSF (National Sanitation Foundation), or HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) certification. Additionally, the tank may be labeled as “food grade” or “suitable for potable water.” Always inspect the tank for any signs of previous non-food use, such as chemical residue or odors.

Are IBC Totes Safe for Drinking Water?

Use only food grade IBC totes to hold potable water. Ensure that the IBC tote is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before use and that it has not been previously used to store substances that could contaminate the water.

Who Typically Uses Food Grade IBC Totes? 

Almost all large-scale food or beverage manufacturers use food-grade IBC totes. This includes wineries, breweries, food processing facilities, and agricultural operations. Individuals or organizations involved in outdoor events, festivals, and disaster relief efforts use them for safe water storage.

Additional Considerations when Choosing an IBC tote for Food Storage

When selecting and using food-grade IBC totes, keep these considerations in mind:

1. Temperature Sensitivity: Certain food products may be temperature-sensitive. In such cases, choose food-grade IBC totes that can maintain the required temperature range. Add insulation, a tote heating blanket or a chiller to maintain the optimal temperature.
2. Compatibility with Stored Materials: Different food products may have varying chemical compositions or pH levels. Ensure that the tote’s materials are compatible with the stored contents to prevent any adverse reactions or degradation.
3. Cleaning and Sanitation Protocols: Follow proper cleaning and sanitation protocols to maintain the integrity and food-grade status of the IBC totes. The 5-step process includes emptying the tote, rinsing, applying the approved cleaner, scrubbing and rinsing, then drying the tote thoroughly.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Different regions and industries may have regulations and standards governing the use of food-grade IBC totes. 
5. Supply Chain Management: Effective supply chain management includes tracking the totes throughout the distribution process. Maintain detailed records of proper handling and storage for auditing and compliance purposes.

The goal is to maintain the integrity and food-grade status of IBC totes to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance.

The Importance of Cleaning IBC Totes and Maintenance

Businesses that use food-safe IBC totes must establish proper cleaning and maintenance protocols. The purpose is to prevent cross-contamination, extend the lifespan of the totes, and ensure they remain suitable for food-grade applications.

1. Cleaning Procedures: Food-grade IBC tote manufacturers can provide detailed cleaning guidelines. Use only approved cleaning agents, specific cleaning methods and thorough rinsing and drying processes.
2. Cleaning Frequency: The cleaning frequency depends on the type of food product stored and the duration of use, but typically after each use.
3. Inspection and Maintenance: Inspect totes before each filling and after every delivery. Inspect seals, gaskets, and interior surfaces for any signs of wear, damage, contaminants or residues.
4. Documentation and Traceability: Keep detailed records of cleaning procedures, inspections, and maintenance activities for food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
5. Training and Education: Establish proper training of personnel involved in the handling, cleaning, and maintenance of food-grade IBC totes. 

A quality cleaning and maintenance program will extend the lifespan of food-grade IBC totes, minimize the risk of contamination, and maintain compliance with industry standards.

Exploring Custom Solutions for Your Needs

While standardized food-grade IBC totes are widely available, some businesses may have specific requirements or unique applications that necessitate customized solutions. Custom options can include specialized materials, unique sizes and capacities, and accessories.

Examples include built-in heating or cooling systems, specialized valves or fittings, or custom-designed handling equipment. For temperature control, explore custom heating solutions with Powerblanket’s experts.

Recycling and Repurposing: The Sustainability of IBC Tote Usage

The recycling and repurposing of IBC totes are essential ways for businesses to adopt more sustainable practices. 

1. IBC Tote Recycling: Many manufacturers and suppliers offer recycling programs for used IBC totes. These programs involve collecting and separating the materials and then recycling them into new products or raw materials.
2. Repurposing for Non-Food Applications: After their initial lifecycle, these sturdy containers can find new purposes in industries such as agriculture, construction, or even rainwater collection systems.
3. Refurbishment and Reconditioning: Used food-grade IBC totes can undergo refurbishment or reconditioning processes to restore them to a like-new condition. 

If disposal of old IBC totes is the only option, work with specialized waste management companies. They adhere to local regulations for the proper disposal of plastic or metal containers.

Embracing Food-grade IBC Totes for Safe and Efficient Food Storage

Food-grade IBCs are one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to move bulk food and beverage products from one point to another. Food-grade means the materials that contact the food, like stainless steel or plastic, are safe for human consumption. 

However, shipping food products always carries the risks of spoilage or contamination. Thorough inspection, tracking, and handling procedures ensure against these threats. If businesses reuse totes for food, they must follow protocols for cleaning, sanitizing, and drying.

To keep temperature-sensitive materials at the right temperature, Powerblanket offers IBC tote warmers and heaters. These solutions provide an effective way to maintain the quality of food or beverage products during storage and transportation. Explore Powerblanket’s Tote Heaters.