It is no longer news that stainless steel is one of the most popular, sought-after and also healthiest choices when it comes to materials used to package or store food. Another amazing thing is the fact that such food items can be stored in these steel materials in either solid or liquid forms. If it is true that food can be stored in steel materials for different periods of time, then it is wise to ensure that the steel material is safe and will not cause harm to the state of the food over time.
In this article, we will explore the healthiest grade of stainless steel that you can store food in without fear of damage.
Types Of Stainless Steel
There are different types/grades of stainless steel. Some of these grades are considered healthy, while others are considered unhealthy. However, the unique combination of each steel is what makes the difference.
- Austenitic Stainless Steel
This is a type of stainless steel that contains non-magnetic and is resistant to corrosion. It is made up of elements such as iron, nickel, chromium, nitrogen, manganese and many other chemical elements. This is a healthy classification of stainless steel.
- Ferritic Stainless Steel
Ferritic stainless steel has a great combination of heat and corrosion resistance. These types of steel do not react with chloride, and as such are regarded as healthy. Although Ferritic is a good type of steel, it is a bit lower in quality than Austenitic steel.
- Martensitic Stainless Steel
This type of stainless steel can be manoeuvred easily. If can either be hardened or manipulated by heat and age. Martensitic stainless steel is usually used in the production of medical equipment like scissors, bowls etc.
- Duplex Stainless Steel
Duplex stainless steel is a steel that combines Austenitc and Ferritic steels in equal proportions. This steel is generally more flexible than Ferritc steel, but is also strong and durable. This teel is greatly used in the industrial field.
- Precipitation Stainless Steel
This is a type of steel that undergoes a heat process to harden it. This process helps increase the strength of the steel. This steel type is used in industries like oil and gas and aerospace.
Healthy Vs Unhealthy Stainless Steel
What sets the major difference between healthy and unhealthy stainless steel is what they are used for. Generally, stainless steel is one versatile material that is used in different industries from automotive to medicine, food and beverages and even appliances. The steel used for automobiles cannot be used for food and beverages.
Healthy Stainless Steel
Healthy stainless steel is a grade of steel made of high-quality materials. They are also free from harmful chemicals or metals. These types of steel are best used for the equipment used in the food industry. For instance, flasks for food and beverages.
If you want to purchase water bottles and flasks made from healthy and hygienic steel, you can do so from this link.
If you are seeking to get a stainless steel flask, you can opt for the 8 oz stainless steel insulated hip flask. This is ideal not just for a water bottle but for use to store beverages as well. The tight cap makes it impossible for your beverage to spill or leak. This stainless steel insulated flask is large enough to sustain you for hours.
If you are about to embark on a road trip, our 75 oz stainless steel water bottle for travel is ideal. With this bottle in your backpack, you won’t need extra water for a few hours. The 75 oz comes in different colours like black, navy, mint green and pink.
You could also try the 54 oz food jar if it is a food jar that you seek. The stainless steel lining within helps keep your food healthy for consumption. With this food jar, you can preserve the temperature of your food or beverage for hours. The jar is sizeable and easy to carry around. Therefore, you do not have to worry about it being too bulky to carry around.
Unhealthy Stainless Steel
Unhealthy stainless steel is a steel that is either low-quality or contains a lot of harmful chemicals and metals like lead, mercury and cadmium. These elements are harmful to your health and are thus, regarded as unhealthy steel because they are not fit to be used in the food industry.
This steel can cause a lot of health challenges like kidney failure, kidney damage and even cancer. Unhealthy stainless steel can lead to contaminated food. As such, it should never be used to store or package food.
304 Stainless Steel
This is the most common type of austenitic steel used in industries like food and architecture. This grade of steel is considered safe and hygienic enough for use. 304 stainless steel is also corrosion-resistant. It is sometimes referred to as 18/8 stainless steel.
316 Stainless Steel
316-grade stainless steel is another type of austenitic steel that contains elements like chromium, nickel and molybdenum. It is often used in corrosive environments and is more corrosion-resistant than 304 steel.
201 Stainless Steel
This is a type of austenitic stainless steel that requires high levels of corrosion resistance. 201 stainless steel has moderate to high levels of resistance to corrosion. 201 steel is also referred to as Manganese steel due to the addition of Manganese. Unlike other types of austenitic steel, 201 stainless steel is magnetic. It is best suited for decorative items, electronic components, automotive parts and sometimes, kitchen wares.
Conclusion
It is essential to choose a stainless steel grade that is healthy and durable enough to serve the purpose it was purchased for. The appropriate grade of stainless steel chosen ensures you get the best performance from them. This can save you a lot of unnecessary stress.
If you are interested in purchasing a food, beverage or water stainless steel, you should search through our site for affordable and quality stainless steel insulated mterials.
