Stainless steel is an important component in the food industry. It’s used from the production of food in an industrial setting through the service of the food to the customers. There are many different components and pieces of equipment that are made with it, and not all of these are the same.

Finding the correct stainless steel product to use in the manufacturing of these foodservice items is critical because the incorrect products could fail and cause harm to the consumer. The incorrect type of stainless steel can also lead to increased costs for the foodservice businesses if they’re having to replace equipment that fails due to the wrong type of stainless steel being used.

Two Most Common Types of Stainless Steel in the Foodservice Industry

There are two common types of stainless steel used in the foodservice industry.

One of these is 316 stainless steel, which can withstand chlorides. It’s used when there’s salt present in the food, as well as for products that contain meat.

The other is 304 stainless steel, which is a suitable option for other foodservice applications that don’t contain any chlorides. Being exposed to chlorides could lead to pitting of 304 stainless steel.

Foodservice applications typically use stainless steel because it can be easily cleaned. Stainless steel wire that’s used in the fabrication of equipment, including frying baskets, has to be able to withstand normal use and be able to be easily cleaned. The composition of the stainless steel means that the baskets can be washed and dried periodically without having to worry about rusting and similar defects.

Cleaning can be a challenge in some cases, such as when there’s stainless steel wire mesh that has very small holes. In this case, specialized cleaning might be required, and the stainless steel has to be able to withstand the cleaning without falling apart.

High-Quality Sourcing is Important

Businesses that are manufacturing stainless steel products for any step in the foodservice process must ensure they’re using high-quality products. Using low-quality stainless steel wire and stainless steel wire mesh can lead to rusting and breakage, which could lead to tainted foods.

Contact Wickwire to find out how our stainless steel wire and mesh can benefit your foodservice products and equipment. Our professionals understand your need for the highest quality at a competitive price point.