Is the use of NSF H1 lubricants mandatory in food facilities?

1. Legal Obligation

• In Turkey and many other countries, the use of NSF H1 approved lubricants or greases in food production facilities is not a direct legal requirement.
• However, food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000) mandate the use of food-grade products.
• Using H1 certified products on equipment with a risk of food contact is critically important for compliance during audits.

2. HACCP and GMP Perspective

• In HACCP risk analysis, it is necessary to prevent possible chemical contamination at every point that may come into contact with food.
• According to GMP standards:
  • If non-food-grade lubricants come into contact with the food line, they pose a contamination risk.
  • Therefore, NSF H1 products are preferred in areas where there is a possibility of food contact, such as bearings, chains, and sealed mechanisms.

3. Situation by Application Area