Can you use food grade potable water hose to process kool aid or gravy?

First post, so I hope this is the right forum area....but we are discussing potable water hose vs food transfer hose, at out facility.

I am gather from researching, you should use food transfer hose (FDA food grade), to transfer food products

and potable water hose (FDA food grade) to transfer water, even though "food grade" is applied to both.

Is this correct, or can you use food grade potable water hose to process say kool aid or gravy?

Thanks,

David

The biggest factor are the fittings.  The fittings are generally where there is bacterial harborage and harder to clean aspects of the hose.  You need to make sure the hose material (food contact portion) is food grade and holds up to the process and sanitation.  Then, determine the fittings you need for the hose and are they easily cleanable?  If not, can they be disassembled after each use and cleaned?

Example on the fittings, if you use any barb type fitting it will have to be removed for each cleaning.  However, there are other types of fittings that can be installed in a sanitary design, such as tri-clamp or camlock.

Thanks Ryan

Welcome David.

FYI...there are companies that specialize in hoses for food contact and for other industries.  I know one chain called "Hose Man".  They will typically be able to provide you with better guidance as they specialize in hoses specifically.  You can have a hose custom made for your application, or buy one off the shelf from them.  I've used a local company for some chemical transfer speciality applications and they have worked out very well.  Their pricing is as good or better than Grainger or McMaster Carr.  Good luck!

Thanks Ryan