Why Every Food Business Needs a Food-Grade Silicone Sealant

(And How to Choose the Right One)

Maintaining hygiene, safety, and durability in commercial kitchens and food production environments depends on using the right materials—especially in food-contact zones. A critical yet often overlooked component is food-grade silicone sealant. Whether you're sealing stainless-steel benches, splashbacks, food prep surfaces, or areas exposed to constant washdowns, choosing the right sealant helps prevent contamination, protect surfaces, and support compliance with food safety standards.

What Makes a Sealant “Food Grade”?

A product can only be classified as food grade when it meets strict safety and performance requirements for use in food-related environments. High-quality food-grade silicone sealants include:

• FDA approval or equivalent certification

• Neutral cure, low-odour formulation

• Non-toxic and non-tainting characteristics

• Enhanced mould and fungus resistance

These properties make food-grade silicone safe for sealing fixtures, joints, and equipment in kitchens, food manufacturing facilities, and hospitality venues where hygiene regulations must be upheld. For more on safety standards, you can reference guidelines from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), which outline requirements for food-contact materials.

Common Uses for Food-Grade Silicone Sealant

Food-safe silicone sealant is widely used across commercial food environments, including:

• Stainless-steel benches, splashbacks, and prep areas

• Tiled walls in kitchens, dishwashing zones, and wash areas

• Food processing equipment and machinery joints

• Cold rooms, freezer environments, and refrigerated prep stations

• Benchtop fixtures, cabinetry, and equipment trims

• Any area exposed to water, moisture, or daily chemical washdowns

Because it tolerates extreme temperatures, heavy use, and harsh cleaning chemicals, food-grade silicone is suitable for:

• Restaurants and cafés

• Butchers and delis

• Bakeries

• Supermarkets

• Food processing and manufacturing facilities

To explore more equipment designed for commercial kitchens, you can visit MEFE’s range of Stainless Steel Benches and Food Preparation Equipment.

Why White Silicone Sealant Is Often Preferred

White silicone is the go-to for many food businesses because:

• It offers a clean, hygienic appearance

• It’s easy to inspect for cleanliness

• It suits areas where compliance requires visible cleanliness

• It pairs perfectly with stainless steel, tiles, and commercial-grade fixtures

This makes white food-grade silicone especially popular in HACCP-certified environments.

Key Performance Features to Look For

When selecting a food-grade silicone sealant, ensure the product delivers:

1. Fast Drying and Curing

Minimal downtime matters in busy commercial kitchens. A fast-drying sealant lets you return to full operation sooner.

2. Strong Adhesion Across Surfaces

Look for compatibility with:

• Stainless steel

• Tiles and grout

• Glass

• Plastics

• Aluminium

• Natural stone

3. High Temperature Resistance

Food environments swing from freezer rooms to hot prep zones, so your sealant must handle temperature extremes.

4. Fungicide and Mould Resistance

Critical for preventing contamination and maintaining hygienic surfaces.

5. High Elasticity and Durability

Quality silicone should stretch, flex, and withstand vibration without cracking—essential for commercial equipment that sees daily movement and cleaning.

6. Reliable Water Resistance

Essential for splash zones, washdown areas, and constant moisture exposure.

For more durable sealing solutions, you may also consider MEFE's Silicone Sealants & Accessories for broader application needs.

Why MEFE’s Food-Grade Silicone Sealant Stands Out

MEFE’s Food Grade Silicone Sealant – White is engineered specifically for commercial hospitality and food production environments. Designed for long-lasting performance, its key benefits include:

• Excellent adhesion to stainless steel, tiles, glass, concrete, aluminium, and many plastics

• Tack-free in 10 minutes and fully cured within 24 hours

• FDA-approved for food-related applications

• Exceptional water and moisture resistance

• Working temperature range: –40°C to 150°C

• 500% elongation at break, ensuring flexibility and long-term durability

Whether you're sealing a new fit-out or maintaining existing equipment, this product delivers a reliable, compliant, food-safe finish.

When Should You Replace Silicone Sealant?

Even the best sealant needs periodic inspection and replacement. Replace your sealant if you notice:

• Cracking or peeling

• Detachment from surfaces

• Visible gaps between joints

• Mould or fungus growth

• Discolouration or staining

Regular maintenance helps prevent bacterial growth and supports ongoing compliance with food safety regulations, including those provided by Safe Food Australia.

Final Thoughts

Food-grade silicone sealant may be a small detail in your kitchen or food facility, but it plays a massive role in maintaining hygiene, safety, and regulatory compliance. Choosing a high-quality, FDA-approved sealant ensures your preparation areas remain properly sealed, sanitary, and protected from contamination risks.

If you’re looking for a professional, commercial-quality solution, explore MEFE’s Food Grade Silicone Sealant – White—trusted by kitchens, manufacturers, and foodservice operators across Australia.