united-states business consumer-protection regulations
Are there restrictions on what can and cannot be called &quot;Stainless Steel&quot; for marketing purposes?
<p>A coworker was recently complaining to me that there are restrictions on types of steel American companies can call "Stainless Steel" when marketing products (for example, outdoor grills) and that Chinese companies are exempt from these restrictions.</p>

<p>Are there any specific regulations regarding stainless steel in product marketing and how might a company be exempt from these restrictions?</p>

<h2>Yes</h2>

<p><a href="https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel#" rel="nofollow noreferrer">Stainless steel </a>is a classification of steel containing at least 10.5% chromium by mass, you cannot legally market something as stainless steel if it is, for example, mild steel, plastic or wood. </p>

<p>However, within that classification there are an enormous number of different grades, each suitable for different applications. For example, 304 stainless is suitable for building products but will rapidly corrode if used near the sea: coastal areas need 316 stainless. </p>

<p>Your friend may be complaining that Chinese manufacturers use a grade of stainless in applications where American companies and consumers would expect a different type. This may also be illegal if the actual type used were not specified. Notwithstanding, the goods themselves may be illegal as not "fit for purpose".</p>
