NSF51 vs. NSF61 Certifications:  Know The Difference

Nov 13th 2024

NSF51 vs. NSF61 Certifications: Know The Difference

“Hose Talk: NSF 51 vs. NSF 61 – A Sip of Safety”

The Backstory: A Tale of Two Certifications

Imagine this: You’re standing in your kitchen, ready to brew that perfect cup of morning coffee. You reach for the water hose connected to your coffee machine, and suddenly, a question pops into your mind: “Is this hose safe for my precious coffee beans?”

Fear not, my friend! We’re about to unravel the mystery behind two essential certifications: NSF 51 and NSF 61. These acronyms might sound like secret codes, but they’re your trusty guides to a world where hoses meet health standards.

NSF 51: The Foodie’s Favorite

NSF 51 is like the culinary whisperer of certifications. Its mission? Ensuring that materials used in food equipment play nice with our favorite edibles. Think of it as the backstage pass for hoses, gaskets, and tubing in the food and beverage industry.

NSF 61: The Water Whisperer

NSF 61 wears a different hat. It’s all about the water – the stuff we drink, cook with, and shower in. Imagine it as the guardian of our hydration. When hoses meet H₂O, NSF 61 steps in.

Water, Water Everywhere: But Is It Safe?

  • Potable Water Systems: That’s the fancy term for “water you can drink.” NSF 61-certified hoses are like the VIP guests at the water party. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure they won’t sneak any nasties into your glass.
  • Materials: EPDM, silicone, and other water-friendly materials take center stage. These hoses are like the water sommeliers – they won’t ruin the taste of your morning gulp.

The Showdown: NSF 51 vs. NSF 61

Intended Use:

  • NSF 51: Food equipment, from coffee makers to soda dispensers.
  • NSF 61: Water distribution systems, treatment facilities, and anything that whispers sweet hydration.

Testing Requirements:

  • NSF 51: Material safety for food contact – no hidden flavors, please!
  • NSF 61: It’s like a water purity test – both material safety and structural integrity.

Certification Marks:

  • Look for these badges:
    • NSF 51: “Foodie Approved!”
    • NSF 61: “Hydration Hero!”

Why Not Both? The Dual-Certified Dream

Some hoses flaunt both certifications – like a versatile actor playing both foodie and water lover. These dual-certified hoses can dance from coffee machines to water coolers without missing a beat.

So, dear reader, next time you sip that freshly brewed coffee or take a refreshing gulp of water, raise your cup to NSF 51 and NSF 61. They’re the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring that our beverages stay delicious, and our hydration stays pristine.

We have several combo NSF 51/ NSF 61 options for all your needs and have the links below:

Hose: https://specialty-sales.com/style-5000-grey-pureflex-water-hose/

https://specialty-sales.com/style-5015-clear-braided-all-purpose-pvc-hose-food-grade/

Tubing: https://specialty-sales.com/style-20-john-guest-linear-low-density-polyethylene-lldpe-tubing/

Interested in learning more? let's get in touch!