Stainless steel material is widely used in many industries, especially the food industry. From food storage equipment to kitchen appliances, kitchen countertops (found in most industrial kitchens), water bottles and even cutlery. All these are examples of food-grade stainless steel found in the food industry.
The term “food-grade” stainless steel was coined in reference to materials used in direct contact with food without contaminating the food and are thus, hygienic and safe. This simply means that there are some stainless steel materials that are not necessarily healthy for use as a food-grade steel. And if that is the case, then it means that those particular steel should not be used in direct contact with food.
In this article, you will learn how to identify and choose food-grade stainless steel.
Chemical Properties Of A Food-Grade Stainless Steel
What differentiates food-grade stainless steel from regular stainless steel are the chemical components found within each. Food-grade stainless steel must have certain chemical components which make it durable for use in the kitchen and in direct contact with food.
The most common food-grade stainless steel is Type 304. Another way of saying it is 18/8 grade stainless steel. And there is another 316 stainless steel, which is 18/10 medical grade stainless steel. 316(18/10) stainless steel has better corrosion resistance and 304 and 316 stainless steel are widely used in food utensils. This stainless steel must contain small amounts of elements like nitrogen, titanium and molybdenum. All the chemical components contained make it possible for this steel to be resistant to heat, resistant to corrosion and hygienic enough to be used in the kitchen. You can purchase some of your food-grade stainless steel materials like water bottles here.
Other chemical components of food-grade stainless steel include;
- 03% Sulfur
- 08% Carbon
- 045% Phosphorous
- 1% Silicon
- 2% Manganese
- 8% Nickel
- 18% Chromium
Criteria For Choosing Food-Grade Stainless Steel
Before food-grade stainless steel can pass as a quality steel that can be used in the kitchen, it must meet certain criteria. All of these are what accounts for it being the hygienic steel it is. Some of the criteria are listed below;
- Composition
The chemical composition of food-grade stainless steel is essential as it determines its sustainability for use in the industry. The most common type of steel used in the food industry is Type 304. This steel is made up of different chemical elements in different proportions.
The food-grade stainless steel has elements like Chromium and Nickel amongst others.
- The Finish
This is a crucial factor to take into keen consideration when choosing food-grade stainless steel. The finish refers to the final appearance and feel of the steel. In the food industry, the most common types are the 2B and #4 finish.
The 2B finish has a smooth and shiny surface that mirrors objects. This type of steel finish is easy to clean and maintain. The #4 finish, otherwise known as the brushed finish has a matte-looking appearance. That is to say, it does not have as much shine as the 2B finish.
- Certification
Before you invest in purchasing food-grade stainless steel, ensure that it meets this certification criterion. There are bodies that certify whether or not food-grade stainless steel passes as safe, healthy and hygienic not. The two most common are the NSF International and European Union certifications.
If the steel is not certified as healthy and safe for use as food-grade stainless steel, then it probably isn’t. And if it isn’t, then you shouldn’t e using it in the food industry.
- Resistance To Corrosion
Before settling on a particular steel for the food industry, ensure that it is resistant to corrosion. That is, ensure that it doesn’t react when in contact with food and cleaning agents. This way, you are guaranteed the continuous health of your steel as well as a hygienic material to eat from.
- Durability
Food-grade stainless steel must be durable and long-lasting. It is always advisable to invest in a quality stainless steel material as such can withstand wear and tear and serve you for years without a need for change.
When you purchase an FJ bottle, you are assured of quality and durability and also get to enjoy 5% off.
A great choice to start with will be the 100ml vacuum stainless steel insulated water bottle. This bottle is great if you are sporty or frequent the gym. It doesn’t matter whether you are male or female as you can get this in either black, navy or pink.
Another bottle you can try is the 1000ml vacuum stainless steel insulated water bottle standard mouth. This bottle has enough capacity to last you hours in a day to keep you refreshed and hydrated. The attractive and simple design is another reason why this vacuum water bottle is a must-have. If you are about simplicity and aesthetics, this is a bottle you should invest in.
If you have a kid or more, they are not left behind either. You can purchase a water bottle for your child/children from our kids’ collection. If your child loves designs and patterns, you can purchase the 350ml vacuum stainless steel insulated kids water bottle with straw. There are designs from dinosaurs to flowers, to bees or horses. Whatever your child’s preference, there is the perfect bottle for them.
Another popular choice from our kids’ collection is the 400ml vacuum stainless steel insulated kids water bottle with straw. You can purchase this bottle in any of the following colours; mint green, pink, red or blue. This helps your child stay hydrated all day while using a healthy bottle.
- Easy To Clean
Another factor to consider when choosing food-grade stainless steel is the ease of cleaning. Generally, food-grade stainless steel items are easy to clean, wash and maintain. If it is not easy to clean, it probably isn’t stainless steel.
- Cost
Stainless steel for food-grade may be more expensive than other materials used in the food industry. However, it is always advised that you have a budget in mind and stick with it. There will always be quality stainless steel that fits your budget. You can purchase your affordable and budget-friendly steel items from our website.
Conclusion
Choosing the right food-grade stainless steel is a walk-over when you know the things/factors to look out for. Also, in choosing the right food-grade stainless steel, you are taking the right steps towards ensuring that you do not get sick from the materials you put your food.
If you are unsure where to shop for the best and most affordable food-grade stainless steel water bottles, shop at FJbottle.
