Brita Standard Pitcher

The most common stainless steel alloy used in kitchen equipment, containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel (hence '18/8'). It is an actual material specification (ASTM A240/A276), not a marketing claim. 304 is the established standard for food-contact surfaces in commercial and consumer kitchen products, certified under NSF/ANSI 51 for food equipment materials.

A higher-grade austenitic stainless steel alloy containing 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. The molybdenum provides superior resistance to chloride and salt corrosion, earning it the 'marine grade' designation. Used in surgical implants (316L variant), chemical processing, and premium kitchen products. More expensive than 304 but offers genuine advantages for acidic food contact, water filtration, and families with nickel sensitivity.

A marketing claim suggesting a kitchen product uses surgical-quality steel, typically referring to 316L stainless steel used in medical implants. Air fryer and cookware components rarely need or meet true medical device material standards (ISO 5832). For kitchen use, 304 stainless steel is perfectly adequate for food contact, and 'medical-grade' adds cost without meaningful safety benefit for cooking.