How-To

What Is 304 Stainless Steel? The Water-Bottle Explainer

304 stainless steel is a food-grade steel alloy containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel, giving it excellent corrosion resistance, non-reactivity with food and drinks, and durability. It's the standard for quality water bottles — safe with any beverage, doesn't leach, and resists rust. BIS IS 17526:2021 verifies its use in Indian vacuum insulated bottles.

Key Facts

  • 304 stainless steel is also called "18/8" — 18% chromium, 8% nickel.
  • It's food-grade — safe for prolonged contact with food and drink.
  • Non-reactive with acids, juices, coffee and hot drinks.
  • Excellent corrosion resistance in normal use.
  • HYV uses food-grade 304 stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation for verified hot/cold retention.

The composition

18% chromium (rust resistance), 8% nickel (structural integrity and non-reactivity), plus iron and trace elements. This ratio is why 304 is the food-grade default.

Why it matters in bottles

Water bottles hold liquid — sometimes acidic (juice, lemon water), sometimes hot (tea). 304 handles all of it without leaching or reacting.

How to verify

BIS IS 17526:2021 certification verifies food-grade material use. See what IS 17526:2021 tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 304 stainless steel safe for drinking water?

Yes — it's the food-grade standard for water bottles.

Is 304 the same as 18/8?

Yes — 18/8 refers to the 18% chromium, 8% nickel composition of 304.

Is 304 or 316 better for water bottles?

304 is standard; 316 adds molybdenum for extra corrosion resistance (used in marine environments).


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