The term 'grade' refers to how the results that an object achieves after it undergoes different tests and requirements. For food grade stainless steel, objects must be safe for dining, storage, and food preparation.
Food grade stainless steel is a popular material choice for food preparation for several reasons. However, the benefits can vary depending on the exact grade. This is something important to keep in mind if you want to purchase stainless steel tools for your food manufacturing business.
Still, if you want to get convinced to purchase food grade stainless steel, read on. This article will detail some of the benefits of this type of material for the preparation of food.
What Are the Different Grades of Food Grade Stainless Steel?
This article will mention how well different grades benefit food handling. Thus, it's important to introduce some different grades of stainless steel first. You can learn a bit more about the two grades this article will cover in the list below.
304
This is the most common form of stainless steel around the world. It tends to contain between 16 to 24% chromium and 35% nickel and smaller amounts of carbon, silicon, and manganese. The rest of the material is iron.
316
316 isn't as popular as 304 mostly due to its higher costs. However, as you'll see, that cost comes with the benefit of some superior qualities to 304. 316 primarily contains austenite and also contains a high percentage of chromium and nickel.
What Are the Benefits of Food Grade Stainless Steel?
Another thing to keep in mind before looking at these benefits is that poor manufacturing can lessen these benefits. Make sure when you search for food grade stainless steel food preparation tools, you find quality manufacturers. Then you can be certain that you'll fully experience the benefits below.
1. Corrosion Resistant
A lot of the foods that your workers may handle contain acids. These can wear down the metals in your food preparation tools over time.
Because both 304 and 316 food grade stainless steel have nickel, they can resist this effect. They're also much easier to clean.
However, 316 is more resistant to corrosion than 304. This is most likely because the former material has a higher nickel content.
2. Chlorine Resistant
Chlorine compounds are often used in the food industry for sanitary food handling. The problem here is that 304 stainless steel does not have chlorine resistance. Chlorine ions can spread under chromium barriers and compromise the metal.
This isn't the case for 316. So if you want to have 304 stainless steel tools in your workspace, make sure that you minimize the use of chlorine products.
Learn How to Best Equip Your Facilities From Us
No matter if you choose 304, 316, or any other food grade stainless steel not mentioned here, you're sure to get a superior product. Stainless steel is a popular material for many good reasons. If you want the best food manufacturing facility, you should equip it with the best tools.
Also, if you need help with equipping your facility, consider using our services. We offer high-quality consulting services that can help your business reach its highest potential. Check out our offers for food manufacturing services and schedule a consultation today.