Food Safety: Understanding NSF-Approved LED High Bays [Food processing LED High Bay]

Maintaining high hygiene standards is paramount in food manufacturing. Your choice of lighting plays a significant role in achieving this. This article clarifies the differences between NSF-approved LED High Bays, designed specifically for food production, and standard high bay fixtures. We will also discuss the NSF standards that apply to LED lighting for food manufacture and explain why using these specialized fittings are a necessity in your food processing environments.In South Africa, while there isn't a single unified standard for lighting in the food industry exactly like the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) standards in the U.S., there are relevant regulations and best practices that apply — usually drawn from broader hygiene, safety, and workplace standards.SANS 14159-1 – Hygiene requirements for food processing equipment (based on ISO 14159), which can indirectly influence lighting fixture design.

While not focused solely on lighting, they impact the materials, cleaning ability, ingress protection (IP ratings) and safety in food processing environments

Food manufacturing Led High Bays are typically manufactured to comply with NSF standards, which we will use to create the comparisons between standard LED High Bays and Food manufacturing High bays like the Lynx 39 High bay.

Standard LED High Bays and their NSF-certified counterparts differ considerably in the way they are made and the components used. Consider the materials.

·       NSF High Bays utilize non-toxic, corrosion-resistant substances such as aluminum alloy with powder-coated finishes and stainless-steel components.

·       Lenses consist of shatterproof polycarbonate or acrylic, eliminating glass as a contaminant. Standard High Bays might employ less durable materials prone to corrosion or chipping. Their lenses can be glass, presenting a contamination risk if breakage occurs.

The design of the LED High Bay’s also sets these fixtures apart. NSF High Bays feature a smooth, streamlined construction without exposed screws, crevices, or gaps where unwanted dust, food particles or pathogens can accumulate. This means that the fitting can be thoroughly cleaned. Standard High Bays typically have exposed fasteners and irregular surfaces like the heat dissipation fins that are difficult to clean and can harbor contaminants.

The IP rating, is also critical. NSF High Bays demand a high IP rating to guard against dust and water, essential for withstanding regular washdown procedures. IP66 is a minimum, with IP69K often required in direct food processing zones. Standard High Bays typically have lower IP ratings (IP65), offering less defense against moisture and dust, making them unsuitable for demanding food environments.

The Lens material is another key differentiator between the two different types of fittings. NSF High Bays use shatterproof polycarbonate or acrylic to prevent contamination from broken shards. Standard High Bays often use glass. With the ridged cleaning process, Chemical resistance is also a factor. NSF High Bays are built to resist degradation from the cleaning agents used in food facilities. Standard High Bays may not possess this resilience.

The necessity of NSF-approved fittings in your food manufacturing operations stems from several critical points.

·       These fixtures prevent contamination. Standard lights pose risks of physical, chemical, and biological contamination.

·       NSF-certified fixtures minimize these risks.

·       They also assist in maintaining hygiene.

·       Food facilities must adhere to strict sanitation regulations. NSF-approved lighting supports a clean environment.

·       NSF fixtures are built to withstand harsh conditions, offering a longer lifespan.

·       Safety is enhanced through shatterproof construction and proper sealing.

·       Finally, using NSF-certified lighting demonstrates a commitment to food safety and quality.

In summary, selecting the correct LED lighting for food manufacture is not merely about illumination. It is about safeguarding your products and upholding stringent hygiene standards. NSF-approved LED High Bays provide the technical features necessary to meet these demands, making them an indispensable component of any food processing facility.

While we acknowledge that these are not specified regulations under SANS, it can be argued that using NSF approved fittings will provide a cleaner, safer and more hygienic food manufacturing environment, and should be considered  for these application.For more information, please contact our sales office on +27(0)11 4620251, send a mail to sales@genesisone.co.za or visit our website www.genesisonelighting.com”Unit 27, Northlands retail park, 210 Epsom Ave, Hoogland, Randburg, 2169