BACTERIAL BUILDUP IN A 3D MODEL

This is a serious problem, as even the smoothest 3D prints have small cracks and spaces where food can get stuck and bacteria can multiply. There is a consensus in the 3D printing community on this, so you should be wary of small spaces created during printing. If you plan to use the object once and then throw it away, there is no problem (except for the environmental issue…). In the case of multiple uses, it could be a problem!

CHEMICALS IN THE FILAMENT

There is a real debate about this, but in general ABS is considered unsafe for use in food. This is because ABS contains toxic chemicals that can seep into food and possibly your mouth.

Natural PLA is made from corn and is generally considered food safe. However, some companies include other additives (to give it color or other properties) that can be hazardous to health. Some PLA filaments are marketed as food safe, but it is important to check with the manufacturer.

TOXIC PARTICLES RELEASED DURING THE 3D PRINTING PROCESS

According to a study conducted in 2013. by the Illinois Institute of Technology and the Lyon National Institute of Applied Sciences, desktop 3D printers using ABS and PLA plastics are “high emitters” of ultrafine particles (UFP). These particles can be on the surface of a 3D print, and inhaling or ingesting them in excessive amounts can have negative health effects.

DO NOT WASH IN A DISHWASHER

So, if bacteria has accumulated in your 3D printed model, you can wash it and you’ll be fine! Not so fast…. If you wash your creation in hot water or in the dishwasher, it can warp and even warp over time. PLA is more sensitive to heat and is definitely not suitable for washing in the dishwasher (it can even seriously damage it!).

SOME BRASS NOZZLES CONTAIN LEAD

Brass extruders for 3D printers can contain lead, and lead contamination can cause health problems. It is not known exactly how much lead is contained in brass and whether a significant amount of lead is transferred from the nozzle during the printing process. Some observers believe this is a huge problem, while others say that the level of lead that is carried into the final product is completely insignificant.