Research for the Common Good: Unreliable Lead-Free Marketing for Tableware

Abstract

Tableware often contains glazes that may contain lead and other toxins. Inadequate firing processes can result in lead seepage into food, posing health risks upon ingestion. 1. Besides glaze, the ceramic material itself may contain heavy metals, such as lead. Even exposure to very low levels of lead can significantly impact childhood IQ, which has been a public issue since the 1960s. Near-zero levels of exposure to toxins are essential to protect public health. 2. Health organizations have published recommended “safe” levels of lead and other toxins. For example, California Proposition 65: <0.1 ppm; Massachusetts 105 CMR 460.200 Lead Poisoning and Control: <2 ppm; Food and Drug Administration (FDA): <0.5 ppm for mugs. In this study, ceramic cups specifically advertised as lead- and cadmium-free were tested. While the primary goal was to verify the legitimacy of lead- and cadmium-free advertisements as an educational service to consumers, levels of chromium and zinc were also tested. Specifically, the level of toxins within the ceramic, the amount of toxins leaching into the consumable liquids, and changes in leached levels over time were investigated. Samples were examined by using Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) analysis. Our findings show a wide range of toxin exposure, indicating that the marketing is false.