I think this issue is largely over blown especially when you're speaking of higher quality grinders. Aluminum indeed is bad to consume which is why aluminum grinders are typically coated for protection sake. If there is any cause for concern, you should first notice it in the grinder with the anodization wearing off. For additional precaution, wash before first use.
Grinders also typically use plastic rings that are meant to mitigate aluminum on aluminum friction. Additionally, the most common places where aluminum rubs against aluminum is away from the area where the herb is kept.
What I'm curious about when it comes to the Herb Ripper is whether or not it employs any innovations that deal with typical grinder gripes. The one thing that sounds interesting is the sand blasting of the interior...I wonder if that actually works to prevent resin from sticking to the metal. I don't consider the all SS build to be that innovative since other grinders have done the same but I can see the value in it.
I am still curious about where and how the anodization on the BCG wore off. Was it maybe ISO soaked for too long? That seems to be the most likely scenario.
@billyg I'm still a little curious about what you mean here. What do you mean when you say that the Lift can't handle certain buds as well as the Herb Ripper can. I'm sure the HR is a great grinder but how is it better than the Lift from a grinding perspective. I'm asking because if you can convince me, I'll buy one as it was one of the ones that I was looking at when I bought my Lift.