Dyneema ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibres can now be used in knitted cut resistant gloves for the food processing industry in Europe. Within the European Union, materials and items used in food contact applications need to comply with strict requirements laid out in the Framework Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 governing materials used in contact with food, as well as the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006. DSM Dyneema’s UHMWPE fibre has now been granted approval under these EU regulations.

Knitted gloves made from Dyneema are used widely in other industries such as the automotive industry and the sheet metal working industry. Most are manufactured on seamless glove knitting machines supplied by market leader Shima Seiki.Gloves made with Dyneema are said to be ideal for use in the food industry, thanks to a combination of the high level of protection they provide together with enhanced comfort and durability. Wearer comfort is also said to be equally as important as protection performance for safety managers and company employees, since it is a crucial factor in ensuring that gloves are actually worn.

“Durability is also important for the buyer. Gloves made with Dyneema have very long service lives and withstand multiple laundering cycles, delivering cost savings without compromising on performance,” a spokesperson for Dyneema said today.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval for Dyneema’s UHMWPE fibre in 2006 for use in food contact applications.