this post was submitted on 13 May 2025
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3D prints are not food safe.
There is a caveat, but yes: By definition, 3D printed parts should not be considered food safe.
Single-use cookie cutters are generally OK if you don't use them multiple times a day every day.
There are probably minor chemical risks but it wouldn't be in high enough quantities to kill you. There isn't really anything inherently food unsafe with PLA, ABS or PETG.
Bacteria is a much bigger risk during reuse because you can't fully clean the prints between the layer lines and other surface defects. The plastic generally won't survive a proper sanitization process either.
What your own risk tolerance is for plastic additives is up to you. If you do print a cookie cutter, toss it after you are done.
I really don't condone producing single-use 3D prints unless it results in a net reduction of plastic waste for the same end. It would make more sense to 3D print a form to turn a thin strip of steel into a proper food safe and reusable cookie cutter. No waste and you can make as many cookie cutters as you want.
Isn't PLA made from plants though? Then just dispose of it properly how would that be an issue.
PLA breaks down under industrial composting conditions. It isn't really biodegradable. It is fair to call it plastic waste.
This is why you dispose of it properly rather than leaving it in a hedge somewhere.
Disposing of it properly means landfill, pretty much. Not that big of a deal, but the microplastics it adds to our environment on its way there, and during the manufacturing process, will last ages.
While I was looking into this I learned about another material, PHA, which is much better suited to eco-friendly printing.