Food-Grade Silicone vs Regular Silicone: Key Differences You Should Know

Silicone has become one of the most versatile materials used in modern industries, ranging from food storage containers to medical devices and even aerospace components. However, not all silicone is created equal. For consumers and businesses dealing with food, the most important distinction is between food-grade silicone and regular silicone.

Understanding their differences is essential for making safe and sustainable choices, especially if you are considering silicone products for kitchens, baby care, or packaging.

What Exactly Is Silicone?

Silicone is a synthetic polymer made from silicon, oxygen, and carbon, originally derived from silica (sand). The result is a material that is flexible, heat-resistant, and durable, often described as having the softness of rubber but the resilience of glass.

Because of these qualities, silicone has applications across multiple industries, from automotive seals and electronics to medical implants and kitchen tools.

What Is Food-Grade Silicone?

Food-grade silicone refers to a specially formulated type of silicone designed to be safe for direct food contact. Unlike ordinary silicone, it contains no fillers or harmful byproducts.

Key characteristics of food-grade silicone include:

• Non-toxic and BPA-free – Does not leach harmful chemicals into food.

• Heat and cold resistant – Safe between -40°C to +230°C (-40°F to 446°F).

• Durable and flexible – Maintains shape without cracking or breaking.

• Non-stick surface – Resistant to stains and odors.

• Certified safe – Meets FDA and EU (LFGB) food safety standards.

Thanks to these features, food-grade silicone is widely used in:

• Reusable silicone food bags

• Baby bibs and baby bottles

• Bakeware and cooking molds

• Lunch boxes and storage containers

What Is Regular Silicone?

Regular silicone is the version used in industrial and technical applications. It is not tested or certified for direct contact with food.

Typical uses of regular silicone include:

• Automotive gaskets and engine components

• Industrial seals and adhesives

• Aerospace materials

• Construction and electronics

Unlike food-grade silicone, regular silicone may:

• Contain chemical fillers or byproducts

• Have a strong, unpleasant odor

• Deform more easily and feel rough to the touch

• Fail to meet FDA or LFGB safety standards

Therefore, regular silicone should never be used in food storage, preparation, or baby products.

Food-Grade vs Regular Silicone: Quick Comparison

Is Food-Grade Silicone Safe for Daily Use?

Yes. Food-grade silicone has been extensively tested and approved by FDA (U.S.) and LFGB (Europe) for safe food contact. Unlike plastic, it does not release microplastics when heated and does not absorb food flavors or odors.

It is also reusable, reducing the need for single-use plastics, which makes it a sustainable option for eco-conscious consumers.

Why Choose Silicone for Food Storage and Kitchenware?

Compared with plastic, stainless steel, or glass, food-grade silicone offers a unique balance:

• Safer than plastic (no harmful leaching, no microplastics).

• More durable than glass (won’t shatter if dropped).

• Lighter and more flexible than steel, making it easy to carry and store.

For these reasons, silicone lunch boxes, reusable food bags, and baby products are quickly replacing traditional materials in kitchens worldwide.

Jewelives – Trusted Manufacturer of Food-Grade Silicone Products

At Jewelives, we specialize in producing high-quality silicone products that combine aesthetics, safety, and functionality.

Our advantages:

• Over 21 years of manufacturing experience

• Certified by BSCI, Sedex, ISO 9001, Disney FAMA, and GMP

• A team of 20+ R&D specialists launching 1,000+ new designs annually

• Full OEM & ODM services to customize silicone solutions for global brands

Our product range includes: silicone lunch boxes, food storage bags, baby bibs, bakeware, ice trays, and phone cases—all made from 100% food-grade silicone.

Contact Jewelives today to explore our safe, durable, and customizable silicone solutions for your market.