News Blog
Keep up to date with the latest news, insights and features from Pharma Hygiene Products
Why Stainless Steel?
March 27, 2025
Our Recommendation for Safer, More Cost-Effective Storage and Transportation of Ingredients and Finished Products
When it comes to storing and transporting ingredients and finished products, choosing the right material is crucial for maintaining quality, safety, and efficiency. Stainless steel has emerged as the preferred choice over plastics and other metals due to its exceptional durability, hygienic properties, and resistance to corrosion. Whether in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing, stainless steel vessels ensure product integrity while meeting stringent safety and regulatory standards. This article explores the key advantages of stainless steel and why it outperforms alternative materials in industrial and commercial applications…
So why stainless steel? Stainless steel vessels are recommended over plastics and other metals for storing and transporting ingredients and finished products, due to the following advantages:
Corrosion Resistance – Stainless steel is resistant to rust, oxidation, and chemical reactions, ensuring product longevity and purity.
Non-Reactive – Unlike some metals, stainless steel does not react with acidic or alkaline substances, preserving product integrity.
Durability & Strength – Highly resistant to impact, wear, and extreme temperatures, making it ideal for transport and heavy use.
Pharma Hygiene Products’ Sales Director Says: “Many of our customers use stainless steel vessels to ship ingredients and products between their sites around the world; other sites can then sterilise and re-use the vessels, preventing the need for continual re-investment.”
Hygienic & Easy to Clean – Smooth, non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth and allows for thorough sanitation.
Our Customer Says: “[The products] were selected based on the quality, longevity, ease of cleaning and material of construction. Process vessels, I also have to say that they are very well made and fulfil our needs.” Surepharm
No Leaching of Harmful Substances – Unlike some plastics, stainless steel does not leach chemicals into stored products.
Sustainability & Recyclability – 100% recyclable and a more environmentally conscious choice compared to plastic alternatives.
“Stainless steel is one of the most environmentally efficient raw materials available”, states Life Without Plastics, “because of its durability and ability to be recycled”. Over the past twenty years, improved process technology has enabled manufacturers to significantly reduce the quantities of energy required to produce stainless steel. It now takes around 6-15MJ (1665 to 4170 watt-hours) of energy, whereas making plastics takes on average 62-108MJ (17200 to 31950 watt-hours). Even once their service life is over, stainless steel items should never enter the waste stream. Stainless steel is 100% recyclable and can be reused to make new products without loss of any of the original properties, such as tensile strength, ductility and corrosion-resistance.
Odour & Stain Resistance – Does not absorb flavours, odours, or colours, ensuring product purity.
Regulatory Compliance – Meets food safety and pharmaceutical standards, making it ideal for industries like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals.
Our Customer Says: “The most important thing to us is the exceptional average surface finish of <0.4µm. 316L pharmaceutical grade stainless steel meets all our requirements.” GW Pharmaceuticals
Pharma Hygiene Products can provide comprehensive certification for stainless steel products, to ensure that your QA and regulatory compliance requirements are met.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency – Higher initial cost but offers durability and low maintenance, reducing long-term expenses.
Our Customer Says: “Although we pay a premium up front, in the long-term it’s a sound investment. We have deviated to another supplier in the past who were cheaper, but we found that the quality was not as good.” Fragrance Oils Manufacturer (NDA Protected)
Stainless steel vessels offer significant advantages for storing and transporting ingredients and finished products. Their durability, non-reactive nature, and ease of cleaning make them the ideal choice for industries that prioritize hygiene, safety, and efficiency. Unlike plastics and other metals, stainless steel resists corrosion, prevents contamination, and maintains product integrity over time. While the initial investment may be higher, its long-term cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and regulatory compliance make it a smart and reliable choice. By opting for stainless steel, businesses can ensure the highest standards of quality and safety in their operations.
or contact Pharma Hygiene Products today for further information or a quotation.