Are Epoxy Countertops Food Safe?

Epoxy countertops have become an increasingly popular option for home renovations and new construction projects. The glossy, durable material is relatively affordable compared to alternatives like granite or marble. Epoxy also allows for creative designs with color mixes and aggregates blended into the resin. But despite the aesthetic appeal, many homeowners have lingering concerns - are epoxy countertops actually safe for food preparation and storage?

We'll examine epoxy resin components, government regulations, proper application techniques, and best practices for keeping your countertops non-toxic.

Understanding Epoxy Resin Components

Epoxy countertops are created by mixing two main liquid components - the epoxy resin and a hardening agent or catalyst. The two parts chemically react and harden into a solid plastic material. Most epoxies used for countertops are based on bisphenol compounds, including bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol F (BPF).

BPA has been shown to mimic hormones in the body and has been associated with health issues like developmental disorders, obesity, infertility and cancer. Due to these concerns, BPF epoxy resins were developed as an alternative. While BPF is generally considered less toxic than BPA, some recent studies suggest it may also have unintended hormonal effects in humans.

For optimal food safety, the best option is to choose an epoxy product that is free of both BPA and BPF. Reputable epoxy brands designed for countertops will often advertise that their resins are 100% BPA-free and BPF-free.

The Importance of FDA Standards

Since epoxy countertops will come into direct contact with food during meal prep and cooking, it's crucial that the epoxy meets specific government safety standards. In the United States, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates chemicals used in materials that contact food.

Any epoxy resin sold for use on countertops or other food contact surfaces must comply with FDA regulations in Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Specifically, epoxy adhesives must adhere to CFR 175.105, while epoxy coatings must meet CFR 175.300.

Reputable brands selling FDA-compliant food safe epoxy will indicate on their packaging that their products meet these CFR safety benchmarks. Always verify this before purchasing an epoxy kit for your kitchen or dining room countertops.

The Dangers of VOCs in Epoxy Products

Some epoxy resins contain solvents and other additives that can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as the epoxy cures. Studies have linked VOCs with a range of possible long-term health effects:

• Respiratory irritation if inhaled
• Headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Kidney and liver damage
• Increased cancer risk

Exposure to VOCs from epoxy is most concerning for installers working with the products regularly. But homeowners can also be exposed during installation or from release of VOCs over time as epoxy ages.

Choosing a VOC-free, water-based epoxy product is the best way to avoid potential VOC-related health hazards. Be sure to review product safety data sheets to confirm no solvents or VOCs are present before purchasing.

Applying Epoxy Countertops Safely

While choosing the right epoxy product is critical, safe application is equally important. When working with resin, it's essential to follow precautions and apply the epoxy properly to create a food-safe countertop surface.

Thoroughly Clean Surfaces

Before applying any epoxy, the countertop surface must be meticulously cleaned. All wax, grease, soap residue and dirt must be removed to allow the epoxy to properly adhere. Any debris left under the epoxy could provide a food-safety hazard and will look unsightly.

Clean the surface with an abrasive cleaner to remove grime. Then wipe down with denatured alcohol on a lint-free rag prior to epoxy application. This will remove any last traces of contamination for good adhesion and a food-safe finish.

Create a Seal with Thin Epoxy Layer

Applying a thin sealing layer of epoxy before the thicker finish coat is advisable for an optimal food-safe finish. This sealing layer prevents moisture and debris from seeping between the epoxy and the countertop, reducing contamination risks.

Use a foam roller to evenly spread a thin layer over the surface. Allow this to partially cure before pouring on the thicker layer. The seal prevents bubbles from forming in the topcoat and provides protection from underneath.

Mix and Pour Epoxy Quickly

Epoxy begins curing and hardening quickly once the resin and hardener components are mixed together. You typically only have a 20-40 minute window to mix, pour and spread the epoxy before it becomes too viscous to properly work with.

Plan quantities carefully in advance so you mix only as much epoxy as can be applied during this work time. Have any aggregate colors or materials ready to add and spread. Work efficiently to ensure even coverage and avoid bubbles from forming as the epoxy hardens.

Utilize the Proper Safety Equipment

When working with liquid epoxy, proper personal protective equipment is a must. Chemical-resistant gloves prevent skin exposure that could cause allergic reactions or irritation. A respirator mask or ventilation system is critical to avoid inhaling epoxy fumes.

Safety goggles protect eyes from splashes of epoxy or hardener. Finally, wear suitable protective clothing to avoid accidental epoxy spills on your skin or personal garments.

Choosing the Safest Epoxy Brands

While general epoxy sealants from hardware stores may be cheap, they often contain solvents and do not comply with FDA food contact regulations. When selecting an epoxy for any kitchen or dining surface, it's worth investing in commercial-grade, food-safe epoxy.

Here are some reputable epoxy brands designed specifically for countertops:

Stone Coat Epoxy

Stone Coat specializes in art resin for custom concrete coatings, including countertops. Their products meet FDA CFR 175.300 standards for food contact and use 100% solids UV-stable epoxy free of VOCs or solvents.

Ecopoxy Flowcast Epoxy Resin

Ecopoxy produces high-performance commercial epoxy designed for coating concrete floors and counters. Their FDA-compliant, solvent-free formulas are ideal for restaurants and food service.

Art 'N Glow Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin

This artist-grade epoxy resin complies with FDA 21 CFR 175.300. It uses a non-toxic formula free of BPA, VOCs and solvents, making it safe for home kitchen use.

MAX CLR - Epoxy Resin System

MAX CLR offers professional quality resin for coating countertops, bars and tabletops. This ultra clear formula meets FDA standards for food surface contact.

ArtResin Epoxy Resin

Developed specifically for artists and crafters, ArtResin does not contain BPA or VOCs. It complies with FDA regulations for food-safe epoxies.

ProMarine Supplies - Table Top Pro Epoxy

As a marine epoxy designed for boats, Table Top Pro is waterproof, chemically resistant and complies with FDA 21CFR175.300 standards.

Professional Installation for Food Safety

While DIY epoxy countertops are achievable for many homeowners, hiring a professional to fabricate and install epoxy counters may provide peace of mind around food safety. Experienced contractors are familiar with selecting the optimal resin formulas and brands to comply with FDA food contact regulations.

Professional installers have the skills to properly mix components, prepare surfaces, level any uneven areas, apply sealing coats, and finish the epoxy to a smooth, non-porous surface ideal for food prep. They utilize specialized tools, safety equipment and clean working conditions to minimize any risks of contamination.

For homeowners concerned about potential health hazards, hiring a pro to handle the countertop epoxy application provides reassurance. While the cost is higher than a DIY project, it's a worthwhile investment to ensure safety.

Caring for your Epoxy Countertops

Once installed, maintaining epoxy countertops only requires simple cleaning methods to keep them non-toxic for food prep.

Use a soft sponge or cloth with a mild detergent and warm water for day-to-day cleaning. Refrain from abrasive scrub brushes or pads which could scratch the surface. Blot spills promptly to avoid any stains.

Avoid exposing the countertop to excessive heat from hot pans. Use trivets for hot dishes from the oven or stovetop. Also take care to not drag or scrape metal pots and pans along the surface.

With heavy usage, the glossy finish can become dull over time. Resealing the epoxy with a clear coat restores the shine and fills in any micro-abrasions. Professionals can refinish counters every few years.

By using food-safe epoxy and keeping counters properly maintained, you can confidently utilize your epoxy surfaces for all your kitchen food prep!

When selected and applied properly, epoxy resin countertops provide a durable, attractive and cost-effective option for kitchens and other food spaces. But due to concerns over chemical leaching, it's essential to choose commercial-grade epoxy designed to meet FDA food contact regulations and follow best practices for installation and maintenance.

Opt for BPA/BPF-free, VOC-free epoxy from reputable suppliers that comply with CFR safety standards. Careful mixing and coating ensures a contaminant-free finish. While DIY application is possible, professional installation offers peace of mind around food safety.

Homeowners can outfit their kitchens with food-safe epoxy countertops with the right product and handling.