About the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)

The NSF, established in 1944, was originally created to set guidelines for sanitation and food safety for soda fountains and restaurant equipment. Today, NSF is an accredited, independent certifying organization that rigorously tests and certifies products to ensure they comply with public health and safety standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), NSF not only develops American National Standards but also maintains them through a ballot system similar to that used by ANSI. Products that meet these standards proudly display the NSF mark.

What is NSF Standard 61 for?

NSF/ANSI Standard 61 governs products that interact with potable water across the U.S., focusing on evaluating contaminant leaching levels rather than specifying content requirements. This standard encompasses a range of products, including cements, paints, coatings, adhesives, pipes, hoses, non metallic potable water materials, concrete release agents etc.

By establishing these standards, the National Sanitation Foundation helps ensure the safety of public drinking water. Products certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 61 have undergone thorough evaluation by an independent third party, confirming their suitability for installation in public water systems where water quality is essential for safe public consumption or use.

What is the difference between NSF Certified and NSF Compliant Data?

For a product to achieve NSF certification, it must pass independent, third-party verification. This process includes routine on-site inspections, audits of materials and facilities, and ongoing product testing to confirm compliance with NSF’s strict standards. NSF-compliant products meet these high standards but do not undergo independent testing or third party verification.