The Importance of the Food Grade Symbol:
Food grade symbols are essential indicators that help consumers identify whether a product is safe for contact with food. If you’ve ever seen a spoon and fork symbol or a wine glass and fork icon on packaging or kitchenware, you’re looking at a certification of food safety. In this article, we’ll explain what these symbols mean, the difference between them, where to find them, and why they’re important for both consumers and manufacturers.
 
What Is a Food Grade Symbol?
A Food Grade symbol signifies that a material or product is safe for direct contact with food. It means the item has passed safety testing and complies with national or international food contact standards.
There are two common types of food-safe symbols:
 
1. Food Grade Symbol (Thailand Standard): Spoon and Fork on a Plate
This symbol is widely used in Thailand and represents certification by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI).
Key features include:

• Indicates the product is safe for food contact under Thai regulations.
• Commonly found on plastic containers, utensils, and packaging.
• Certified according to TIS (มอก.)  standards.

 

2. Food Safe Symbol (EU Standard): Wine Glass and Fork
This symbol is used across the European Union (EU) and ensures the product meets EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 for food contact materials.
Key features include:

• Recognized across all EU member states.
• Used on items like plastic food containers, cups, and utensils.
• Demonstrates that the product has passed EU-level safety tests for food contact.

 

Why Food Grade Symbols Are Important
Using food-safe materials protects public health. Here’s why recognizing these symbols matters:
✅ 1. Ensures Safety
Food-grade products are tested to ensure they won’t release harmful chemicals or toxins when in contact with food.
✅ 2. Backed by Certification
Products displaying these symbols have been officially certified by a trusted authority such as TISI, the FDA, or the EU.
✅ 3. Helps Consumers Choose Wisely
These symbols make it easier for shoppers to identify safe products at a glance, improving trust and decision-making.
 
Where to Find the Food Grade Symbol on Products
Food-safe symbols are usually found in these locations:

• Bottom of bottles or containers
• On product packaging (e.g. plastic bags or boxes)
• On kitchen utensils and food storage items

1. Conduct Product Testing
   Products must be tested for chemical safety, durability, and food contact suitability.
2. Meet Specific Standards
   Testing must align with standards like:
   • Thai TIS (มอก.)
   • FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
   • EU Food Contact Regulation
3. Get Certified
   Once a product passes, manufacturers can legally use the food-safe symbol to build trust with customers.

 
Conclusion: Always Check for the Food Grade Symbol
Before buying containers, packaging, or kitchenware, look for the Food Grade or Food Safe symbol. It’s a small detail that ensures your health and safety in the long run. Whether you’re a manufacturer or a consumer, understanding these certifications can make a big difference in food safety.

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