Why Food-Grade Stainless Steel Is Ideal For The Food Industry

Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials out there andusedin a wide variety of projects and applications. Although stainless steel is a tough and durable material, every project requires a different kind of steel, so that maximum advantage can be taken of its unique properties. This blog talks about the advantages of food-grade stainless steel fittings for the Food industry.

• Corrosion resistance - Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures. The material’s protective oxide layer helps prevent the formation of rust that could contaminate foodstuffs.

• Bacteria protection -Processes such as electroplating are favored over manually grinding down surfaces. Electroplating strips away the surface layer of steel to provide a microscopically-smooth substrate. This not only enhances the strength of the oxide layer in stainless steel but also removes the microscopic flaws that could harbor bacteria. 

• Resistant to salt exposure -Grade 316 food-grade stainless is highly resistant to salt exposure, which makes the steel preferable for food companies that use salt or saltwater in their products.

• Non-reactive - Stainless steel is a non-reactive metal, so it can be exposed to foods that are acidic like citrus, tomatoes, and vinegar. Material like aluminum and iron, on the other hand, are reactive and can damage the surface of the metal.

Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of food grade stainless steel fittings prior to implementing them in food production process is critical to ensure safety, sanitation, and efficiency.