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Nickel free stainless steel cookware: what it all means

Nickel free stainless steel cookware: what it all means

by Corrine Sultana in The Low Tox Project Blog

If you’ve been looking into stainless steel bakeware, you’ve probably seen the term ‘nickel free stainless steel cookware’ or ‘18/0 stainless steel cookware’ pop up as an option. Is it better? Is it safer? Do you need it?

Well, like most things in the kitchen, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. But once you understand what nickel does in stainless steel, it’s much easier to make the decision. 

So what is nickel doing in stainless steel? 

Stainless steel is an alloy, a blend of metals, and nickel is one of the elements used to add strength, corrosion resistance and that polished finish. The grade of steel tells you how much nickel is in the mix, if any.

The grades you’ll most commonly see in cookware are 18/8 (18% chromium, 8% nickel), 18/10 (18% chromium, 10% nickel) and 18/0 (18% chromium, zero nickel). All three are widely used options and often depend on the type of product or the manufacturing/usage requirements. 18/0 is the nickel free version – and it's just as durable and food-safe as the others. 

To read about the different grades in more detail, check out our article on stainless steel grades and differences, and whether or not 18/10 is suitable for baking.  


Does nickel in cookware actually matter? 

 Nickel is a naturally occurring metal found in soil, water, and many everyday foods including wholegrains, nuts and legumes. It's also widely used in manufacturing – from jewellery and coins to kitchen appliances and cookware. For most people, it passes through daily life completely unnoticed. For some, it can trigger a sensitivity.

Generally speaking, nickel in cookware isn't something that needs to be on the radar. In the context of everyday cooking, nickel exposure from stainless steel is considered minimal compared to other common sources like certain foods, jewellery or even belt buckles.

That said, nickel allergy is the most common contact allergy worldwide, affecting an estimated 10–20% of people. Symptoms can include skin reactions, digestive discomfort and general sensitivity responses – and for some people, dietary and cookware sources of nickel are something their healthcare provider has specifically flagged. If that sounds familiar, switching to nickel free stainless steel cookware is a simple, practical step that can make a real difference day to day.  

Does nickel free stainless steel work on induction?  

One thing worth knowing: 18/0 nickel free stainless steel is magnetic, which means it's compatible with induction cooktops. 18/8 and 18/10 are generally not magnetic and won't work on induction unless they have a bonded magnetic base (and are labelled accordingly). So if you're cooking on induction, 18/0 nickel free stainless steel pans aren't just a nickel-conscious choice – they're the functional one too. 

Our nickel free stainless steel products 

We use both 18/8 and 18/0 across our cookware range, choosing the grade that makes the most sense for each piece. In some cases, the mould required to shape a product will determine which steel can be used.

Our Nickel Free Stainless Steel Oven Tray, 12-Cup Muffin Pan and Mini Muffin Pan are all 18/0 – completely nickel free stainless steel. The rest of our range is 18/8, with nickel. Both grades are food-safe, durable, and built to the same quality standard – the difference is simply in the nickel content. 

 

Stainless steel muffin pan in use

Stainless steel muffin tin with mini quiche on a white surface

Do you actually need nickel free stainless steel? 

If you have a nickel allergy or sensitivity, then yes, it's worth looking for 18/0. If you don't, either grade is a solid, food-safe option.

What matters most is that you're using good quality stainless steel that you feel confident in, and that the decision makes sense for your kitchen, not someone else's.

Browse our collection today to find the best bakeware for your home. 

Frequently asked questions 

Is 18/0 stainless steel nickel free? 

Yes. 18/0 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 0% nickel, making it the go-to choice for anyone looking for nickel free stainless steel cookware or bakeware. 

Can I use stainless steel cookware if I have a nickel allergy? 

Yes, but grade matters. If you have a nickel allergy, look specifically for 18/0 stainless steel, which contains no nickel. 18/8 stainless steel does contain nickel, though the amount that transfers into food during normal cooking is generally considered low. If you have a diagnosed sensitivity, it's always worth checking with your healthcare provider. 

What's the difference between 18/8 and 18/0 stainless steel? 

The main difference is nickel content. 18/8 contains 8% nickel, which contributes to its corrosion resistance and shine. 18/0 contains no nickel, is magnetic (making it induction-compatible), and is the better choice for those managing a nickel allergy. Both are food-safe and durable – the right choice just depends on your needs. 

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