Which stainless steels can be used to make tableware?

Although stainless steel has many advantages as a material, not all stainless steel can actually be used to make tableware. Stainless steel is divided into many different types, and each type has its own functions. Especially when it comes to stainless steel used for tableware, there are strict requirements and regulations.

Once made into tableware, stainless steel will come into direct contact with food. If it does not meet the standards, it could potentially harm our health. Therefore, in China, there are strict regulations for metals and food products that come into direct contact with food.

Currently, only stainless steel that meets the national mandatory standard GB4806.9-2016 "National Food Safety Standard: Metal Materials and Products in Contact with Food" can be called food-grade stainless steel. This standard limits the migration of five heavy metals—arsenic, cadmium, lead, chromium, and nickel—under specific measurement methods in stainless steel products.

The 304 stainless steel we are more familiar with is a type of food-grade stainless steel and can be used to make ordinary tableware. Beyond this, there is also 316 stainless steel, which has a higher nickel content than 304, giving it stronger corrosion resistance. Additionally, other elements are added during the manufacturing process, so 316 stainless steel is mainly used in the food industry or surgical instruments.

When purchasing stainless steel tableware or other kitchen utensils, we must carefully check whether it is labeled as 304 or 316. Other types of stainless steel should not be bought, especially inferior stainless steel, which may contain some heavy metal elements and pose significant risks to our health.