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Why Microban® is Essential for Food Processing Facility Hygiene

Food processing facilities can intergate proactive cleanliness solutions by integrating Microban® technology into their infrastructure. With Fibergrate FRP solutions, teams can actively reduce microbial growth, meet regulatory demands, and enhance their cleaning protocols .

FGI molded grating in a food processing facility

FGI-AM molded grating in a food processing facility

 

Microban® technology provides a proactive solution to the ongoing challenge of ensuring surfaces stay cleaner in food processing facilities. By integrating Microban® technology into Fibergrate fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) surfaces, facilities benefit from a built-in grating protection that keeps grating surfaces cleaner.

What Is Microban® Technology and How Does It Work?

Microban® is an antimicrobial surface technology that helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. When it is integrated into fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) during manufacturing, these antimicrobial properties become a permanent part of the material. Unlike topical coatings, which can wash off or wear down over time, this integration ensures consistent and lasting protection.

At Fibergrate, we offer protection through our FGI-AM® resin system. This food-grade isophthalic polyester resin is infused with Microban® antimicrobial product protection, which provides built-in defense against odor- and stain-causing bacteria for the entire lifespan of the product. FGI-AM® resin system is available across our grating, plates, covered grating, workstation platforms, and stair treads. It has been successfully tested to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that cause unpleasant odors, discoloration, and surface mildew.

The FGI-AM® resin system provides ongoing microbial reduction between standard cleaning intervals, adding an extra layer of protection that enhances hygiene protocols without superseding them. Additionally, this system features excellent corrosion resistance, is USDA-approved, and has an ASTM E84 flame spread index of 25 or lower. It is important to note that this product is intended for non-public health applications.

Minimizing Microbial Growth in High Contact Zones

FGI-AM® resin system grey molded grating in a food processing facility

FGI-AM® resin system in a food processing facility

 

While Microban®-enhanced FRP does not replace standard cleaning protocols, it complements them by actively inhibiting the growth of odor- and stain-causing bacteria on surfaces such as flooring, grating, and platforms. Unlike antimicrobial coatings that may wear off over time, the integrated protection in Microban®-enhanced FRP remains effective throughout the product's lifespan, making it especially valuable in wet or high-touch zones where maintaining cleanliness is crucial.

Antimicrobial FRP ergonomic work platforms in a food processing facility

Antimicrobial FRP ergonomic work platforms in a food processing facility

 

Case Study: Emmber Foods, a beef processing facility, integrated Fibergrate ergonomic work platforms with antimicrobial FRP. The result was a cleaner surface that reduced the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria. 

Proactive Grating Protection

In food processing environments, microbial growth can persist on surfaces between cleanings, even with rigorous cleaning protocola. Microban®-enhanced fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) products provide continuous antimicrobial protection, reducing microbial load and supporting regular cleaning protocols.

Applications include slip-resistant flooring, drainage grates, work platforms, and wall panels, all designed to reduce microbial growth . These features are particularly valuable in high-moisture, high-traffic, or residue-prone areas, where maintaining cleanliness is critical.

Making Cleaning More Effective and Less Time-Intensive

The integration of Microban® technology into fiberglass-reinforced plastic FRP aids in the cleaning processes by continuously reducing the presence of microbes on surfaces. 

FRP materials are highly durable, offering excellent resistance to corrosion and strong tolerance to chemicals. They can withstand exposure to the harsh cleaning agents commonly used in food processing facilities without degrading. This durability leads to longer-lasting performance, reduced maintenance requirements, and fewer issues with downtime due to repairs or replacements.

Supporting Food Safety Compliance Through Better Infrastructure

FRP products infused with Microban® helps meet food safety compliance requirements set by the FDA and USDA. Their durability, slip resistance, and non-conductivity make them ideal for challenging environments where cleanliness is crucial.

Fibergrate’s offerings are designed to support a long-term strategy, helping facilities stay ahead of evolving standards and audits.

Building a Cleaner Future for Food Processing

Microban® provides three core benefits: continuous anti-microbial surface protection, enhanced surface cleanliness, and compliance support.  Its incorporation into Fibergrate FRP solutions helps facilities minimize microbial growth and enhance cleaning protocols without sacrificing performance or durability.

To strengthen your facility's food safety infrastructure, contact Fibergrate to learn more about FRP products featuring built-in Microban® technology.

FAQ

How does Microban® technology differ from surface cleaners?

Microban® is built into the FRP material during manufacturing. It provides continuous antimicrobial protection that works between cleanings, unlike topical solution that can wash off or degrade.

Will Microban® eliminate the need for cleaning?

No. It complements existing cleaning protocols by keeping surfaces cleaner between scheduled washdowns, but does not replace the need for regular cleaning.

Can Microban® be used in all areas of a food processing facility?

Yes. Microban® can be integrated into various Fibergrate FRP products such as flooring, wall panels, and work platforms, especially in high-touch, wet, or high-traffic areas to support compliance and hygiene goals.

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT FRP IN THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY

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