Comparison of different types of stainless steel: Why 304 stainless steel is the best choice for your kitchen utensils
You're thinking of choosing a stainless steel pan for healthy and sustainable cooking, but you've discovered there are several types of stainless steel: 304, 18/10, ferritic stainless steel… What do these terms mean? How do you know which one is best for your cooking needs? Don't worry, we'll explain everything in this stainless steel pan comparison. 👨🍳✨
At SAINE., we exclusively use 304 stainless steel for our pans. This material wasn't chosen at random: it's safe, high-performing, and exceptionally durable. Discover why 304 stainless steel is your best ally in the kitchen and how it compares to other types of stainless steel.
Why choose a stainless steel pan? 🍳
Before getting into the technical details, let's go back to the basics: why do so many experienced cooks (and passionate home cooks!) opt for stainless steel?
- Legendary durability : A stainless steel pan can literally last a lifetime, provided it is properly maintained.
- Health & Safety : Unlike pans with chemical coatings (which eventually degrade), stainless steel is 100% neutral. There is no risk of toxic substances transferring into your food, even at high temperatures. 💚
- Culinary adaptability : From searing meats to cooking vegetables and making sauces, stainless steel can do it all, with precision and consistency.
- Easy to maintain : No need for chemicals to clean it. By deglazing it with a little hot water and following a few simple usage tips , your pan will stay spotless.
But to enjoy all these benefits, you still need to choose the RIGHT stainless steel. Let's review the main types used for cookware.
The different types of stainless steel for pans and kitchen utensils
1. 304 Stainless Steel: The ideal alloy for durable utensils
Top of the class and a firm favorite with cooks, 304 stainless steel is also known as 18/8 stainless steel. But don't let its technical name intimidate you, here's what it means:
- 18% chromium : this element provides exceptional corrosion resistance, preventing your pan from rusting or deteriorating over time.
- 8% nickel : it strengthens the alloy while giving it a smooth and shiny surface.
Why is 304 stainless steel perfect for cooking?
✔️ It's healthy : no chemical coating, no transfer of elements into food, even during intense cooking.
✔️ It is robust : it is durable and resistant to scratches, stains or deformations.
✔️ It's versatile : using a 304 stainless steel pan means you can cook, sear, simmer, or deglaze like a pro. 👨🍳
✔️ Easy maintenance : a little hot water or baking soda is enough to restore its shine.
For these reasons, at SAINE., all our pans are made exclusively from 304 stainless steel . No compromises. Just impeccable quality stainless steel for healthy and delicious meals. 🥗
2. 18/10 stainless steel: Similar to 304, but not always essential
18/10 stainless steel is a high-end variant of 304 stainless steel, slightly richer in nickel (10% instead of 8%). This small addition further improves corrosion resistance and provides a particularly bright finish.
However, the advantage over 304 is minimal in everyday use, especially in a home environment. Furthermore, this improvement is often reflected in the price of the products.
3. Ferritic stainless steel (or 430 stainless steel): An economical solution, but less durable
Ferritic stainless steel, also known as 430 stainless steel, contains chromium but very little (or even no) nickel. This makes it compatible with induction cooktops without the need for a special base, which may seem convenient at first glance.
However, it suffers from significant drawbacks:
- Less resistant to corrosion (particularly with acidic foods or heavy use).
- Less durable and more fragile, it risks staining or losing its shine over time.
In summary, ferritic stainless steel is suitable for entry-level products, but it is not the material to choose if you want a utensil designed to last for years.
👉 Still hesitating about choosing a stainless steel pan? Discover why they remain a healthy and durable solution, with no risk to your health, in this article: The truth about stainless steel pans and your health.
4. 316 stainless steel: The Rolls-Royce of stainless steel, but is it useful?
Nicknamed "marine grade stainless steel," 316 stainless steel is even more resistant thanks to the addition of molybdenum to its alloy. However, its superior properties are not useful in home cooking, and it is expensive.
Why do our pans use 304 stainless steel?
Because it's unmatched for everyday cooking! At SAINE., we've chosen 304 stainless steel because it offers the perfect balance between performance, durability, and a reasonable price. 💡
- Healthy and safe : No chemical coating, for a kitchen without compromising on health.
- Built to last : Our stoves are robust and designed to last for years without failing.
- Efficient : With even heat distribution, your cooking is always perfect, whether on gas, induction or other.
Summary and comparison: Which stainless steel should you choose?
| Type of stainless steel | Composition | Benefits | Disadvantages | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 304 Stainless Steel | 18% chromium, 8% nickel | Durable, healthy, versatile | Requires a technique to prevent sticking | Those who want a sustainable and ecological solution. |
| 18/10 stainless steel | 18% chromium, 10% nickel | Even more resistant | Slightly higher price. | The perfectionists. |
| 430 Stainless Steel | 16% chromium | Cheap, easy induction | Less durable, less resistant | Occasional use. |
| 316 stainless steel | Stainless steel with molybdenum | Extreme resistance | Very expensive, not very useful | Specific applications. |
Want to cook differently? Discover our 304 stainless steel pans today and adopt a healthy and sustainable approach to cooking. And above all, if you're new to stainless steel, follow our complete guide to use it correctly for perfect results every time. 💫
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