--- title: What Are H1 Lubricants? What Food & Bev Facilities Must Know description: Using the wrong lubricant can fail an audit. Discover why H1 lubricants matter, how they differ from H2, and where food facilities go wrong. image: https://info.kellerheartt.com/hubfs/meat-packing-conveyor-belt.jpg --- [![keller-heartt-oil](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hubfs/branding/keller-heartt-logo.200.png)](https://www.kellerheartt.com/) - Shop By Industry - [Trucking & Automotive](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/commercial-truck-supplies) - [Diesel Exhaust Fluid](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/diesel-exhaust-fluid) - [Motor Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/motor-oil) - [Brake Cleaner](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/brake-cleaner) - [Antifreeze](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/antifreeze-coolants) - [Transmission Fluid](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/transmission-fluid) - [Machine Shops & Metalworking](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/metalworking-fluids) - [Cutting Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cutting-oil) - [Coolant](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/tool-die-coolants) - [Hydraulic Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/hydraulic-oil) - [Soluble Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/soluble-oil) - [Rust Preventative](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/tool-die-rust-veto) - [Industrial](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/industrial-products) - [Hydraulic Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/hydraulic-oil) - [Industrial Gear Oil](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/industrial-gear-oil-all-sizes-brands) - [Multi-Purpose Grease](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/multi-purpose-grease) - [Cleaner & Degreaser](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/industrial-cleaners-descalers-degreasers) - [Ethylene Glycol](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/ethylene-glycol) - [Food & Beverage](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/food-grade-oils-lubricants) - [Propylene Glycol](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/propylene-glycol-drums) - [Cassida Fluid & Grease](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases) - [Fuchs Gear Oil & Grease](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/fuchs-lubricants) - Shop By Brand - [Shell Products](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/shell-oil-lubricants) - [TRUEGARD Products](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/truegard-oil-lubricants) - [Blue DEF Products](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/bluedef) - [Oil Eater Products](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/oil-eater) - [Blog](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs) - [Request a Quote](https://www.kellerheartt.com/pages/request-a-quote) [Contact Us](https://www.kellerheartt.com/pages/contact-us) Lubricant # H1 Lubricants Explained: How They Compare to H2 Lubricants and Why It Matters [Brian McGrath](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/author/brian-mcgrath) Jan 28, 2026 --- **H1 lubricants** are food-grade lubricants specifically approved for use in food and beverage facilities where incidental contact with food may occur. They are formulated to be safe in trace amounts, tasteless, odorless, and compliant with strict Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and National Science Foundation (NSF) standards. In contrast, **H2 lubricants** are designed for use inside food processing facilities but only in areas where there is absolutely no possibility of food contact. Choosing between lubricants isn’t just a maintenance decision—it’s a food safety, compliance, and audit-readiness decision. The wrong lubricant in the wrong place can introduce contamination risks, trigger audit findings, or even result in product recalls. ## What Are H1 Lubricants? ### NSF H1 Food-grade Lubricant Definition NSF H1 lubricants are [food-grade lubricants](https://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/1857/food-grade-lubricants-basics) **approved for incidental, technically unavoidable contact with food**, up to a maximum of 10 parts per million (ppm). They are [registered by NSF International](https://www.nsf.org/knowledge-library/food-grade-lubricants-registrations) and formulated in compliance with FDA regulations, making them [safe for use](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/what-is-food-grade-silicone) in food and beverage processing environments. ### Are All H1 Lubricants ISO 21469-Certified? **No**—not all H1 lubricants are. However, many high-quality H1 lubricants are also [ISO 21469-certified](https://www.manufacturing.net/home/article/13184941/what-iso-21469-lubricant-standard-means-for-food-safety), which goes even further by verifying manufacturing, packaging, traceability, and hygiene control. NSF H1 lubricants and ISO 21469-certified products provide an added layer of assurance because they are: - Independently reviewed - Periodically re-evaluated - Manufactured under controlled quality systems ### Why Are H1 Lubricants Approved for Incidental Food Contact? - Their ingredients are restricted to **FDA-allowed substances** - They are **physiologically inert**, **tasteless**, **odorless**, and **non-toxic** at trace levels - Any accidental contact **does not pose a risk to food safety** when used correctly ### How Does a Lubricant Earn an H1 Classification? - Meet FDA 21 CFR requirements for allowable ingredients - Pass NSF’s independent formulation and label review - Be listed in the NSF White Book™ as an H1-registered product ### What Are Common H1 Lubricant Applications? H1 lubricants are used **anywhere there is a reasonable chance of incidental food contact**, including both processing and packaging equipment: - Conveyor chains and belts - Gearboxes and enclosed gears - Bearings, slides, and guides - Hydraulic systems - Pumps, mixers, and agitators - Fillers, cappers, and labeling equipment - Bottling, canning, brewing, and blending lines In food and beverage facilities, incidental contact is always a possibility due to leaks, over-lubrication, seal failures, or human error. Using NSF H1 lubricants in these applications significantly reduces contamination risk while maintaining equipment performance and longevity. ## What Are H2 Lubricants? H2 lubricants are **non–food-contact lubricants approved for use in food processing facilities only in areas where there is absolutely no possibility of food or beverage contact.** They are not safe for incidental food contact and must be strictly limited to isolated, non-process equipment zones. Common applications include: - Forklifts - Facility HVAC equipment - External compressors - Warehouse machinery Using an H2 lubricant in an application where food contact is possible is a common (and avoidable) audit violation. **Pro Tip:** If you’re unsure which lubricant is best, err on the side of caution by choosing H1 lubricants. ## H1 Lubricants vs. H2 Lubricants: What’s the Difference? The key difference is simple: H1 lubricants are approved for incidental food contact, while H2 lubricants are not. ### Comparison Table: H1 Lubricants vs. H2 Lubricants | **Category** | **H1 Lubricants** | **H2 Lubricants** | | --- | --- | --- | | **Food Contact** | Incidental contact permitted (up to 10 ppm) | No food contact allowed | | **Typical Applications** | Processing equipment, packaging lines | Forklifts, maintenance areas, non-process equipment | | **Ingredient Restrictions** | Strict FDA-approved ingredients only | Fewer restrictions, but toxic substances prohibited | | **Audit & Inspection Risk** | Low when properly applied | High if used near food zones | | **The Bottom Line** | **Commonly considered true food-grade** | **Facility-grade, not food-safe** | ## What Is the Importance of NSF Classifications? **NSF classifications** exist to protect public health by clearly defining where and how non-food compounds like lubricants may be used. During inspections and audits, NSF registration is one of the first things auditors look for when evaluating lubricant compliance. These classifications aren’t just labels—they’re **proof of due diligence and compliance**. ### Why Do NSF Classifications Matter During Audits? Inspectors and auditors commonly check: - Whether lubricants are NSF-registered (H1 vs. H2) - If the lubricant type matches the application - Product labels and registration numbers - Storage practices and cross-contamination controls - Whether products are listed in the NSF White Book™ ### What Are the Risks of Improper Lubricant Selection? Using the wrong lubricant can quickly create food safety and compliance issues. The most common risks include: - Increased contamination risk - Non-conformances or audit findings - Corrective action plans - Costly downtime or product disposal ## What Are the Best H1 Lubricants? The best H1 lubricants deliver both food safety compliance and **high-performance equipment protection**. That’s why [Keller-Heartt](https://www.kellerheartt.com/) recommends [Cassida H1 lubricants and greases](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases), trusted globally in food and beverage manufacturing. Cassida products are: - NSF H1 registered - ISO 21469-certified - Manufactured under strict quality and hygiene standards - Designed specifically for demanding food-grade applications ### What Are the Best-Selling Cassida H1 Lubricants? #### #1. Cassida Gear Fluid GL 150 ![Cassida-Gear-Fluid-GL-150](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Cassida-Gear-Fluid-GL-150.jpeg?width=421&height=420&name=Cassida-Gear-Fluid-GL-150.jpeg)   [Cassida Gear Fluid GL 150](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases/products/cassida-fluid-gl-150-5gal-19l-pail)—along with GL [220](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-wg-220-5-8gal-22l-pail), [320](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-gl-320-5gal-19l-pail), [460](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-wg-460-5-8gal-22l-pail), and [680](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-wg-680-5-8gal-22l-pail)—are high-performance, anti-wear gear oils developed for enclosed gears in food and beverage processing equipment. **Key Benefits:** - NSF H1 registered and ISO 21469-certified - Synthetic base fluids for excellent wear protection - Designed to handle heavy loads and continuous operation - Manufactured under HACCP and GMP-controlled facilities **Ideal Application:** Gearboxes where food safety and reliability must coexist. #### #2. Cassida Grease EPS 2 ![Cassida Grease EPS 2](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-1.jpeg?width=424&height=424&name=undefined-1.jpeg)   [Cassida Grease EPS 2](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases/products/cassida-grease-eps-2-88lb-4kg-cartridges-case) is a high-performance extreme pressure grease designed for food and beverage processing and packaging machinery. **Key Benefits:** - NSF H1 registered and ISO 21469-certified - Aluminum complex thickener for excellent water resistance - Strong load-carrying and anti-wear properties - Suitable for bearings, slides, and heavily loaded components **Ideal Application:** Dependable lubrication in demanding washdown and high-load environments. #### #3. Cassida Fluid HF 100 Hydraulic Oil ![Cassida Fluid HF 100 Hydraulic Oil](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Cassida-Fluid-HF-100-Hydraulic-Oil.jpeg?width=420&height=420&name=Cassida-Fluid-HF-100-Hydraulic-Oil.jpeg)   [Cassida Fluid HF 100](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases/products/cassida-fluid-hf-100-5gal-19l-pail)—plus HF 15, [32](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-hf-32-55gal-208l-drum), [46](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-hf-46-55gal-208l-drum), and [68](https://www.kellerheartt.com/products/cassida-fluid-hf-68-55gal-208l-drum)—are multipurpose hydraulic oils engineered for food and beverage processing equipment. **Key Benefits:** - NSF H1 registered and ISO 21469-certified - Excellent anti-wear and oxidation resistance - Synthetic formulation for long service life - Supports clean, efficient hydraulic system operation **Ideal Application:** Hydraulic systems where leaks could result in incidental food contact. [**View the Food-Grade Products List Now →**](https://info.kellerheartt.com/truegard-food-grade-oils-and-lubricants) ### H1 Lubricants That Always Ensure You’re Audit-Ready Choosing the right H1 lubricants is one of the simplest ways to strengthen your facility’s food safety program and audit readiness. To help you reduce risk, Keller-Heartt offers a full range of high-quality H1 lubricants from trusted brands. Why work with Keller-Heartt? - Deep expertise in [food & beverage applications](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/food-grade-oils-lubricants) - Personalized lubricant recommendations by application - Access to industry-leading H1 and ISO 21469-certified products - Discounts available for bulk ordering - Free, fast shipping on every order Whether you need help selecting the right H1 lubricants, want to standardize products across your facility, or are preparing for an upcoming audit, Keller-Heartt experts are here to support you. [Reach out](https://www.kellerheartt.com/pages/contact-us) or [place your order online today.](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/cassida-lubricants-greases)   [Lubricant](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/tag/lubricant) #### FOLLOW AND SHARE: [![share on facebook](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/social/icons/facebook-color.png?width=45&height=45&name=facebook-color.png)](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Keller-Heartt-Company/170082969671892?ref=hl) [![follow us on youtube](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/social/icons/youtube-color.png?width=45&height=45&name=youtube-color.png)](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA9e_Yo_qd4PqpK2dDdgxaw) [![follow us on instagram](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/social/icons/instagram-color.png?width=45&height=45&name=instagram-color.png)](https://www.instagram.com/keller.heartt/?hl=en) [![follow us on twitter](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/social/icons/twitter-color.png?width=45&height=45&name=twitter-color.png)](https://twitter.com/KellerHeartt) [![follow us on linkedin](https://info.kellerheartt.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/social/icons/linkedin-color.png?width=45&height=45&name=linkedin-color.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/keller-heartt-oil/) [Shop by Brand ►](https://www.kellerheartt.com/collections/shop-by-brand) ## Similar posts Lubricant ### [Food-Grade Lubricants for Breweries: Where to Use Them and How to Choose the Right One](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/food-grade-lubricants-brewery-equipment) Learn how to choose food-grade lubricants for brewery equipment, including H1 lubricants, glycol systems, and maintenance best practices. Brian McGrath Jul 20, 2026 Oil ### [Oil Viscosity Chart & Conversion Guide: ISO, AGMA, and SAE Explained](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/oil-viscosity-conversion-chart) Learn how to convert oil viscosity grades between ISO VG, AGMA, and SAE using our oil viscosity chart. Understand lubricant ratings and choose the... Brian McGrath Mar 12, 2026 Silicone ### [What is Food-Grade Silicone? And Is It Really Safe to Use in Manufacturing Facilities?](https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/what-is-food-grade-silicone) Discover the secrets behind food-grade silicone lubricants. Safe for food contact, tough on friction, and trusted across the industry. Brian McGrath Aug 21, 2025 ## **Get the latest oil & lubricant industry insights** Subscribe to the Keller-Heartt blog so you can sharpen your industry knowledge, gather helpful tips, and stay informed about changes or updates in the oil provider landscape. ### Subscribe to Our Blog! © 2025 Keller-Heart Oil All rights reserved ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Brian McGrath", "url" : "https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/author/brian-mcgrath" }, "dateModified" : "2026-01-28T17:13:19.435Z", "datePublished" : "2026-01-28T17:13:19.000Z", "headline" : "What Are H1 Lubricants? What Food & Bev Facilities Must Know", "image" : [ "https://info.kellerheartt.com/hubfs/meat-packing-conveyor-belt.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://info.kellerheartt.com/blogs/what-are-h1-lubricants", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://info.kellerheartt.com/hubfs/branding/keller-heartt-logo.350.png" }, "name" : "Keller-Heartt Co" } } ```