Dangers of China Glazed Ceramic Coffee Mugs

Before you take a drink from your new glazed ceramic coffee mug, you may want to flip it over to see where it was made. If it was made in China, you may want to test it for leachable lead.

Lead Hazards

• Lead is a heavy metal that can occur naturally in the environment, but is usually produced in ore processing. Lead is toxic to the human body and causes serious neurological damage that results in developmental, kidney and brain disorders. It is especially harmful to children and pregnant women. Additionally, long-term lead exposure in adults may cause high blood pressure and anemia. Severe lead poisoning can be fatal. Lead poisoning usually occurs over time as the element accumulates in the body.

Lead Sources

• Lead can be ingested from dust, soil or contaminated drinking water. People can also be exposed through paint; metal jewelry; hobbies such as pottery, furniture refinishing and stained glass making; lead pipes; imported canned foods (from lead solder used in sealing); batteries; mini-blinds; cosmetics; and glazed ceramic dishes and cookware.

  Some countries banned the use of lead in household products, paint, ceramic glazes, lead pipes in order to reduce lead exposure. China is less restrictive.

  In 2007, contaminantswere found in a range of Chinese products, including ceramics, and caused worldwide concern. The Chinese government responded with stronger regulation, increased monitoring and frequent plant inspections. Despite its efforts, stories of lead poisoning in children living close to China's smelting plants continued in 2009.

Ceramics as a Source of Lead Poisoning

• Historically, lead glazes were used in the production of ceramic ware to protect the surface and enhance durability. Glazes added luster and beauty as well. When properly prepared and sealed, lead glazes pose no health threat. However, any lead glazed dish can become toxic if it is fired incorrectly or if it becomes damaged. Lead "leaches" from the vessel into the food or liquid that it contains. Heating the utensil increases leaching, as does acidic food or drink.

Looking for Lead in Ceramics

• Traditionally, lead glazes were used to seal hand crafted earthenware. Antique collectors should be cautious when using older bone china and porcelain -- even dishes and serving pieces made in America.

  Homemade ceramics and any item that is chipped or grazed are suspect.

  Highly decorated Asian ceramics and glazed terracotta ware imported from Mexico should be tested before using. Beware of any ceramic with a raised, painted decoration above the glaze.

Testing for Lead

• Home lead tests are sold in hardware and paint stores. These tests are simple to use in detecting significant levels of leachable lead in dinnerware or cookware.