If you're looking for corrosion-resistant stainless steel for food and beverage equipment, you've likely come across EN 1.4401 and EN 1.4404-commonly known as AISI 316 and AISI 316L.Both are high-performance, molybdenum-containing austenitic stainless steels widely used in hygienic applications. However, understanding the subtle differences between 1.4401 and 1.4404 is crucial to making the right choice for your food-grade application.
In the food and beverage industry, materials must withstand acidic ingredients, cleaning chemicals (CIP/SIP), and high humidity while ensuring no contamination or surface corrosion. Both 1.4401 and 1.4404 meet the stringent hygiene and corrosion resistance requirements of FDA, EU, and EN standards.
Corrosion Resistance in Food Environments
The primary difference between 1.4401 (316) and 1.4404 (316L) is the carbon content.
The lower carbon content (≤ 0.03%) of 1.4404 (316L) prevents carbide precipitation during welding and provides excellent resistance to intergranular corrosion. 1.4401 (316) performs well in most food environments, but corrosion near welded joints may be slightly increased if heat treated improperly.
In acidic food applications (such as juice, vinegar, or dairy processing), 1.4404 offers better long-term performance, especially during autoclaving or CIP cleaning cycles.
1.4401 vs 1.4404 stainless steel: Specifications
| Property | EN 1.4401 | EN 1.4404 |
|---|---|---|
| Equivalent Grade | AISI 316 | AISI 316L |
| Chemical Composition | C ≤ 0.07%, Cr 16.5–18.5%, Ni 10–13%, Mo 2–2.5% | C ≤ 0.03%, Cr 16.5–18.5%, Ni 10–13%, Mo 2–2.5% |
| Microstructure | Austenitic | Austenitic |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 210 MPa | ≥ 220 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 530–680 MPa | 500–700 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% | ≥ 45% |
| Standard | EN 10088-1, ASTM A240 | EN 10088-1, ASTM A240 |
| Typical Forms | Sheet, plate, coil, tube, bar | Sheet, plate, coil, tube, bar |
Why 1.4404 (316L) is Preferred for Food Equipment
| Feature | 1.4401 (316) | 1.4404 (316L) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content | ≤ 0.07% | ≤ 0.03% |
| Weldability | Good | Excellent |
| Resistance to Intergranular Corrosion | Good | Superior |
| Hygienic Surface Finish | Excellent | Excellent |
| High-Temperature Performance | Up to 800°C | Up to 800°C |
| CIP/SIP Compatibility | Good | Excellent |
| Common Use | Structural parts, tanks | Welded tanks, pipes, fittings |
For food-contact applications, 1.4404 stainless steel is the better choice because of its low carbon content, superior weldability, and long-term corrosion protection.
Common Food & Beverage Applications
Both grades are used across different stages of food processing and handling:
Dairy Industry: Storage tanks, mixing vessels, pasteurization equipment
Beverage Production: Brewery pipes, filling systems, water treatment units
Food Processing: Conveyor belts, washing lines, packaging equipment
Catering Equipment: Sinks, counters, kitchen surfaces
Pharmaceutical & Cosmetic Lines: Piping systems requiring ultra-clean surfaces
What is the difference between 316 and 316L food-grade steel?
The primary difference lies in carbon content, with 316L containing less carbon (0.03%) than 316 (0.08%). This makes 316L more suitable for welding and improves its corrosion resistance, especially in weld areas, as the lower carbon content minimizes carbide precipitation that can occur during heating. While both grades are ideal for food-grade applications due to the higher corrosion resistance provided by molybdenum, 316L is preferred for applications involving welding or contact with harsh disinfectants and acidic foods.
Can both 316 and 316L be used in the food industry?
Yes, both meet food-grade requirements, but 316L is more commonly used for welding and chemical exposure.
Is 316L stainless steel safe for food contact?
Absolutely. 316L complies with FDA and EU food safety regulations, ensuring no contamination or leaching during use.
1.4401 vs 1.4404 stainless steel ：Price & Market Trend (2025)
As of Q4 2025, the price per kg of 1.4404 (316L) stainless steel sheet ranges from USD 3.4 to 4.2/kg, depending on surface finish and order quantity.
1.4401 (316) remains slightly cheaper (USD 3.2–4.0/kg) but with minor trade-offs in weld corrosion resistance.
Global demand for 316L food-grade stainless steel continues to rise due to increasing hygiene standards and equipment modernization in the food processing sector.
Gnee supplies EN 1.4401 and EN 1.4404 stainless steel sheets, coils, and plates for food and beverage-grade fabrication, with ISO 9001, SGS, and BV certifications.
✅ Large Stock: Over 2,000 tons of 316/316L stainless steel in standard food-grade thickness (0.5–10 mm)
✅ Surface Finish: No.4, BA, 2B, and mirror-polished for hygienic use
✅ Quality Control: 100% PMI and ultrasonic inspection
✅ Processing Service: Laser cutting, CNC polishing, and edge trimming
✅ Delivery: 7–15 days worldwide
✅ Payment Terms: T/T, L/C, and other flexible options
Packaging & Transportation
Inner layer: PVC film or paper liner to protect surface finish
Outer layer: Wooden pallet or crate, moisture-proof sealing
Custom markings with grade, thickness, heat number, and batch code for full traceability.
