Is Resin Art Food Safe? What You Need to Know Before Using Resin in the Kitchen

When you fall in love with the glossy, swirling beauty of resin art, it’s tempting to bring those one-of-a-kind pieces right into your kitchen — coasters, trays, maybe even bowls. But is resin art food safe? Can you serve your guests on it? Or use it with your favorite snacks and drinks without worry?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about resin’s safety around food, what types of resin are involved, and how to use your Artful Pours creations confidently and safely.

What Is Resin Art Made Of?

Resin art typically uses a two-part epoxy resin: a resin and a hardener mixed in precise ratios. When combined, they chemically react to form a hard, glassy surface that is waterproof, durable, and beautifully glossy.

There are several resin types:

• Epoxy resin — the most common for art projects, including Artful Pours.
• Polyester resin — mostly industrial, strong smell, less food safe.
• Polyurethane resin — flexible, but not typical for art pieces.

At Artful Pours, we use high-quality epoxy resin designed for art applications. This resin is tough and non-toxic when fully cured but has important safety considerations.

Is Epoxy Resin Food Safe?

Here’s the truth: epoxy resin is not considered food safe unless it is specifically certified as such. And even if it's certified food-safe, there are usually colorants added that are not considered food-safe.

Most art-grade epoxy resins, including those used by Artful Pours, are not FDA food safe for direct contact with unwrapped food.

Why?

• Cured resin surfaces are generally inert and sealed, but they may contain tiny pores or microscopic imperfections.
• Chemicals in resin can leach if in contact with fatty or acidic foods over time.
• Resin can be scratched or damaged, creating bacteria traps.
• The curing process must be perfect to avoid any residual uncured resin, which is toxic.

What Does This Mean for Your Artful Pours Pieces?

Our resin art items are intended as decorative and functional home accents - perfect for trays, coasters, and bowls meant for wrapped food or drinks in a cup or glass.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Use resin coasters under mugs, glasses, and bottles — never place food directly on resin.
• Trays are great for holding wrapped snacks, bowls, or decorative items — but not for serving loose, unwrapped food.
• Avoid cutting food directly on resin pieces to prevent scratches and damage.
• Avoid prolonged contact with oily, acidic, or hot foods.

What About Resin and Heat?  Can You Microwave or Wash Resin Items?

• Resin art from Artful Pours is heat safe up to 176°F (80°C).
• This means hot coffee or tea mugs are safe on your coasters or trays.
• Do NOT microwave or put resin pieces in the oven or dishwasher. High heat can warp or cloud resin.
• Hand wash gently with mild soap and a soft cloth only.

How to Safely Use Resin Art in Your Kitchen and Dining Area

• Use resin trays to corral wrapped snacks, tea bags, or coffee pods.
• Place resin coasters under drinkware to protect tables.
• Display resin bowls filled with wrapped candies or potpourri — avoid unwrapped or wet food.
• Keep resin art out of direct contact with knives, utensils, or cutting boards.
• When in doubt, use a plastic wrap or a paper napkin between food and resin surface.

What About Food Safe Resin? Could Artful Pours Use That?

There are FDA-approved food-safe resins on the market, but:

• They tend to be more expensive.
• Often have limitations on colorants, pigments, or additives.
• May require specific curing environments.

Currently, Artful Pours focuses on creating vibrant, one-of-a-kind art pieces with the best balance of aesthetics and durability, designed to be decorative but not for direct food contact.

FAQs About Resin Art and Food Safety

Q: Can I serve a charcuterie board on a resin tray?
A: It’s best to use parchment paper or a food-safe liner (we suggest plastic wrap) on the tray to avoid direct food contact.

Q: Can resin coasters be used for cold drinks with condensation?
A: Yes! Resin is waterproof and perfect for catching drips from cold glasses.

Q: What if my resin piece gets scratched?
A: Scratches can harbor bacteria and compromise safety. Avoid cutting on resin and handle with care.

Q: Can resin be sealed to make it food safe?
A: Some sealants claim food safety, but it’s risky and not guaranteed. Always treat resin art as decorative.

Final Thoughts

Resin art brings beauty and uniqueness to your home, but it’s important to respect its limitations when it comes to food safety.

Your Artful Pours pieces are made to brighten your space and hold wrapped treats or drinks — not to replace your plates or bowls for direct food contact.

For safe enjoyment, think of resin art as decor first, function second. With proper care and use, your pieces will remain stunning conversation starters for years.

Ready to bring unique resin style to your kitchen — safely?

Browse our curated collection of trays, coasters, and bowls — each one-of-a-kind and ready to elevate your space with style and care.