According to a popular study, contaminated food is found to bring illness and death to a large population each year. As a step towards food safety, the food and beverage industry relies on stainless steel, which has become the go-to material for its practicality and surprising impact on food safety. Stainless steel is now popularly considered useful due to its positive impact on health. In this article, we will find in detail the various health benefits of using stainless steel in food industries and how it contributes to safer food production. 

When you observe the food and beverage industry, you can clearly see the large-scale reliance of food and beverage industries on stainless steel. Be it for food processing, storage, or preparation, the food industries cannot avoid using this popular metal. We'll uncover how its properties, like non-porosity, corrosion resistance, and heat tolerance, work to safeguard food from contamination and harmful substances. Additionally, we'll discover how its easy maintenance and durability contribute to a hygienic environment, ultimately fostering a safer and healthier food experience for consumers. 

1. Hygiene and Cleanliness

One of the primary concerns in the food industry is maintaining high levels of hygiene and cleanliness to prevent food contamination. Stainless steel is a non-porous material; hence, it does not harbor bacteria, mold, or other pathogens. Its bacterial retention capacity is very low. This makes stainless steel equipment, such as countertops, sinks, and utensils, easy to clean and sanitize, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. In addition, stainless steel's smooth surface prevents the food particles from sticking, further reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth. 

2. Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel is a highly corrosion-resistant metal, which makes it one of the primary factors in food safety. Corrosion can lead to the degradation of equipment, causing it to release substances into food that can be harmful to your health. Due to resistance to corrosion, stainless steel ensures that it remains intact and does not contaminate the food being processed or stored without any change in the smell or taste of food products. This property makes stainless steel equipment long-lasting and more durable, reducing your need for frequent replacements. Type 304/L is the austenitic steel grade popular for its oxidation and corrosion resistance. 

3. No Leaching of Harmful Substances

Some materials used in the food industry, such as plastics and certain metals, can leach harmful substances into food, especially when exposed to acidic or high-temperature conditions. Stainless steel is an inert and safe material (withstanding high temperatures and pressures) that does not leach any harmful substances, ensuring that the food remains pure and free from contaminants. Due to this feature, stainless steel is considered as an ideal choice for food processing equipment and storage containers. 

4. Heat Resistance

Stainless steel is highly resistant to heat, thus making it the ideal choice for use in high-temperature food processing applications. Whether it's cooking, baking, or sterilizing equipment, stainless steel can withstand the heat without degrading or releasing harmful substances. Hence, stainless steel equipment is safe to use and does not affect the quality or safety of the food being processed. 

5. Easy to Maintain and Clean

Maintaining a sanitary and clean environment is very important in the food industry to prevent contamination. Due to its smooth surface, it is easy to both clean and sanitize stainless steel surfaces, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Unlike other materials that might require special cleaning agents or techniques, stainless steel can be cleaned using simple methods, such as hot water and detergent. Due to ease of maintenance, stainless steel helps to ensure that the food processing environment remains safe and hygienic. 

6. Resistant to Impact and Abrasion

Food processing equipment and storage containers are often subjected to rough handling and abrasion. Stainless steel is highly resistant to abrasion and impact, ensuring that it maintains its integrity even under harsh conditions. Hence, you can be sure that stainless steel reduces the risk of contamination from damaged equipment and ensures that the food processing operation runs smoothly and efficiently. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, stainless steel's unique properties have positioned it as a champion of food safety in the industry. You now know the various range of health benefits stainless steel offers in the food industry. Its hygienic properties, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance make it an ideal material for food processing, storage, and handling. Additionally, its ease of maintenance and durability make it a cost-effective choice for food businesses looking to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient operation. By choosing stainless steel, the food and beverage industry prioritizes not only efficiency but also the well-being of consumers, offering greater peace of mind with every bite. 

Before choosing stainless steel, you should have knowledge about whether you are choosing the right grade. The right grade will help to reduce the life cycle costs by providing greater life to the equipment.