NSF Classification of food grade lubricants
NSF International (formerly the National Sanitation Foundation) is the leading U.S. recognized independent testing and accreditation body for materials, substances and compounds that can be used in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and feed processing equipment. NSF establishes categories for food grade lubricants and heat transfer fluids that must perform all the same functions as conventional lubricants and be inert, tasteless, odorless and approved for appropriate use. Categories of food grade lubricants are classified based on the risk of contact with food, food or pharmaceuticals during use.
| Designation | Description |
| Lubricants | |
| H1 | General class subject to possible accidental contact with food. H1 Lubricants are not intended for contact with food or pharmaceuticals, but should be used in cases where such contact may occur, such as equipment over a food line. |
| H2 | General class provided there is no contact with products. Lubricants used in areas where there is no possibility of a lubricant or lubricated surface coming into contact with food, such as equipment under a food line. Standard industrial lubricants may qualify as H2 lubricants if they do not contain heavy metals such as detergents and anti-wear/anti-seize additives or compounds defined as carcinogens, mutagens, teratogens and mineral acids. |
| H3 | Soluble oils. Water-soluble and usually food-grade lubricants that are used for rust control. Examples would be meat hook or cart surface grease. |
| HX-1 | Ingredients for use in H1 lubricants. |
| HX-2 | Ingredients for use in H2 lubricants. |
| HX-3 | Ingredients for use in H3 lubricants. |
| Heat transfer fluids | |
| HT-1 | Thermal fluids subject to possible accidental contact with products. |
| HT-2 | Thermal fluids in the absence of product contact. |
| HTX1 | Ingredients for use in HT1 thermal fluids. |
| HTX2 | Ingredients for use in HT2 coolants. |