Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I apologize if there is already a topic\thread concerning this. Still getting used to the search tool. Search Food Safe Grow Beds with just topics and only came up with a thread titled: Food safe liners and grow beds... which was insightful as I was also considering using a Rubbermade Stock tank for my FT.

However, I am concerned with using rubber made style storage totes for grow beds. I know people have used them, but how do you know they are food safe? I've read online that certain recycling symbols with numbers (i.e. #2) indicate food safe materials.

I've already purchased two of these: http://www.homzproducts.com/p-3694-dura ... 8sRS_ldWSo and was wondering if they would be ok to use. They are the heaviest walled tub I could find. I plan on using grow stone because of it's light weight, topped with a few inches of pea gravel to make planting easier on the fingers. I'm hoping there won't be an issue with the sides bowing since I am using a lighter weight media.

Any thoughts on the food safe concerns or tips?

Thanks in advance.

Generally speaking HDPE and LDPE and PVC are considered safe.

Butyl, acetate, polycarbonate, and vinyl can leach. Rubber is generally safe, depends on what they use as a uv inhibitor.

I have 2 of the totes you've linked to as wicking beds... growing habaneros. They are in full sun as well. I am not worried about them.

Hope it helps.

Sounds good. Thanks for the info.

However, I am concerned with using rubber made style storage totes for grow beds. I know people have used them, but how do you know they are food safe? I've read online that certain recycling symbols with numbers (i.e. #2) indicate food safe materials.

I have got the noble and smart idea of using rubber than other materials like PVC etc which are very much prone to leaching effect, let's see what is result of using rubber,