Stainless Steel is lightweight and incredibly durable, making it an ideal material for cookware. If you're planning to invest in Stainless Steel Pots or Pans, you should be aware that there are three types of stainless steel: 18/0, 18/10, and 18/8. 18/8 Stainless Steel is a food-grade material that is known for being resistant to corrosion.
While 18/8 Stainless Steel is frequently used for cookware, it's not the only type of Stainless Steel found in commercial kitchens. Read on to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of this material, as well as your other options.
What is 18/8 Stainless Steel?
18/8 Stainless Steel is composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, which is where it gets its name. It also contains around 50% iron and 0.8% carbon. The chromium in the steel is able to bond with oxygen, which helps to prevent rust and corrosion.
The nickel content is what gives Stainless Steel its durability. Generally speaking, the more nickel that Stainless Steel contains, the more durable it will be.
If that's the case, what is 18/0 stainless steel? Like 18/8 steel, this steel contains 18% chromium, but it doesn't contain any nickel. It's typically cheaper than 18/8 stainless steel, but it's also far less durable.
One major advantage of 18/8 steel is that it's less resistant to heat than other types of steel. It can resist most types of corrosion, but it can be damaged (or pitted by) by salt water. It's stronger than many steels and tends to hold up well over time.
18/8 vs. 18/10 Stainless Steel
18/10 Stainless Steel contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel, making it the most durable form of Stainless Steel. Like 18/8, it's frequently used for both food preparation and dining. However, the higher nickel content makes 18/10 Stainless Steel significantly more expensive.
Even though 18/10 steel contains more nickel than 18/8 steel, there's not a significant difference in weight between the two materials. 18/10 steel does have slightly more shine and is usually much sturdier.
Chromium gives Stainless Steel its anti-corrosive properties, but nickel enhances those properties. Since 18/10 Stainless Steel contains more nickel, it's also more resistant to rust, and flatware made from this material is easier to polish.
While 18/10 steel is primarily used to make cookware and flatware, 18/8 Stainless Steel has a wider range of applications. It's frequently used in a number of industries, including:
- Healthcare
- Wastewater treatment
- Construction
- Transportation
- Restaurants and catering
Is 18/8 Stainless Steel Good for Cookware?
When shopping for Stainless Steel Cookware, you want to keep in mind both price and quality. 18/8 stainless steel is an acceptable option for cookware, especially if you're on a tight budget, but if you want to invest in high-quality cookware, 18/10 Stainless Steel is the better choice. While 18/8 steel is resistant to rust, the higher nickel content of 18/10 steel makes it virtually corrosion-proof.
Another significant advantage of 18/10 Stainless Steel is that it's excellent at conducting heat. You can rely on 18/10 steel cookware to heat food quickly and evenly. 18/8 steel cookware can deliver a solid performance in the kitchen, but it doesn't meet the same high standards of quality.
Stainless Steel Cookware is known for its durability and shine. While Stainless Steel is a lightweight and low-maintenance material, you should keep in mind that the performance of your cookware will vary based on the type of Stainless Steel that you choose. 18/8 and 18/10 Stainless Steel are both solid choices for cookware, but 18/10 is the best option overall.
While 18/10 Stainless Steel may be more expensive than 18/8, this Cookware will last you for a lifetime when properly maintained and cared for, versus a cheaper Stainless Steel that will need to be replaced after a year or so.
If you're interested in cooking with restaurant-quality Stainless Steel Cookware, the Made In Cookware Stainless Clad line has many premium options, including saucepans, frying pans, and even cookware sets. These products work beautifully in restaurant and home kitchens alike. The right equipment is key to your success in the kitchen, which is why stainless steel cookware is a worthwhile investment.
