New Warning on Ceramic Souvenirs

If you don’t want to risk lead poisoning from improperly glazed ceramics bought overseas, be careful about which items you use when serving or storing food.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers about the potential risk of lead poisoning from improperly glazed ceramics that are purchased overseas. It is important to exercise caution and select appropriate items for serving or storing food to avoid any potential health hazards associated with lead exposure.

The FDA’s concern over ceramic tableware sold overseas

The FDA has expressed concern over ceramic tableware sold overseas, particularly in countries such as Mexico, China, Hong Kong, or India. These countries are known for producing attractive ceramic items that are popular purchases among tourists. However, the FDA recommends that ceramic tableware bought in these countries be tested for lead release by a commercial laboratory or only used for decorative purposes.

Since 1971, the FDA has been setting limits, known as “action levels,” on the amount of lead that can leach from ceramic ware. These limits were last tightened in 1980, and now the FDA is considering further tightening its rules to ensure consumer safety.

Identifying decorative and ornamental articles

One of the areas of concern for the FDA is decorative and ornamental articles that may be mistakenly used for food purposes due to their shape or design. To address this issue, the FDA is proposing that decorative ceramic ware, which could be mistakenly considered suitable for food use, must have a conspicuous warning on the base of the article saying, “Not For Food Use-May Poison Food.” Alternatively, a hole can be drilled through the potential food-contact surface to limit its usefulness for carrying food.

These measures aim to differentiate decorative articles from food-service articles and prevent any potential confusion or health risks associated with using these items for food purposes.

Specific concerns regarding high acidic content

The FDA is primarily concerned about pitchers that might be used to hold liquids with a high acidic content, such as orange juice. When ceramic ware with improper glazing comes into contact with high-acid foods, there is a possibility of the acid interacting with the glaze’s components, leading to the leaching of lead and cadmium into the food.

Some examples of high-acid foods that may be vulnerable to lead leaching include apple sauce, citrus fruits, pickle products, and salad dressings. It is important to exercise caution and avoid using ceramic ware that may not meet safety standards when handling these types of foods.

Lead and cadmium in ceramic glazes

Glazes containing lead and cadmium are commonly used to coat many ceramic products. These toxic metals provide a shiny patina and enhance the colors of the ceramic ware. However, for a glaze containing lead to be safe, it must be heated or fired at a sufficiently high temperature and for a specific duration, depending on the glaze formula, size of the piece, and other factors.

If the glazing process is improperly done or the colors aren’t correctly sealed, there is a risk of lead and cadmium being released from the item’s finish. This poses a potential health hazard, especially when these items come into contact with food.

Identifying ceramic ware with potential lead issues

Marvin Blumberg, a consumer safety officer for the FDA, advises travelers to beware of hand-painted items and products that have highly colored surfaces and appear poorly glazed. These items may have a higher risk of lead leaching. It is important to carefully inspect ceramic ware before purchasing or using it for food storage.

While buying products from reputable stores may provide some assurance, it is important to note that even major manufacturers can have poor batches. The potential danger can arise from any product that has to go through a kiln to seal the colors, regardless of its cost.

U.S. Customs’ advice on buying ceramic ware

U.S. Customs also offers advice to consumers regarding the purchase of ceramic ware. Gerita Hinkel, a Customs spokeswoman, advises against buying unglazed items for food use. She warns that even some glazed merchandise may not be safe for food purposes. It is advisable to avoid using items purchased from stalls and outdoor bazaars with food. Hinkel specifically states, “I wouldn’t want to drink or eat anything cold out of any cheap ceramic ware.”

Testing and precautions

To spot-check a glaze, Hinkel suggests running your fingers over the article. If it feels smooth and shiny, it has been properly glazed. However, if it feels chalky and not smooth, it may not have been glazed at all or may have been painted over without proper glazing.

Test kits are available for detecting potential lead issues in ceramic ware. These kits can be used by consumers to assess the safety of their ceramic items. Additionally, commercial laboratories offer testing services for a more accurate and comprehensive analysis, although this may be a more expensive option.

Additional resources and comments on FDA proposed rules

For more information on lead and ceramic ware, the FDA offers complimentary copies of an article titled “Pretty Poison: Lead and Ceramic Ware.” Interested individuals can request this article from the FDA by contacting them at their address: 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Md. 20587. Please ask for FDA publication number 87-1139.

Comments on the FDA’s proposed tighter rules can be submitted to the agency at the same address, citing Docket No. 89N-0014, by July 31. The FDA welcomes public input and feedback on these proposed regulations.