FDA Tableware Standards

On September 10, 2010, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an alert concerning "Excessive Lead and/or Cadmium" in ceramic tableware. "Dietary lead exposure" causes chronic poisoning, which pollutes both the blood stream and the human waste system, resulting in serious health hazards and environmental consequences.

Lead and Cadmium in Ceramic Glaze

• According to the FDA, lead and cadmium are often contained in the glaze that coats ceramic tableware. When this glaze has been inadequately applied to a piece, or poorly fired in the kiln, lead and cadmium can seep out of glaze and into the food with which the ceramicware comes into contact. The FDA has issued "continued surveillance" of imported ceramic tableware, particularly glasses, bowls, and other "items designed to hold liquid."

CNCA Cooperation

• Prior to this alert, the FDA and the Certification and Accreditation Administration of China (CNCA) came to a public agreement concerning ceramicware exports. As of January 6, 2006, the CNCA is required to certify that all ceramicware exports bound for the United States will satisfy FDA standards.

FDA Regulations

• The FDA requires that lead does not exceed 3 ppm in flatware, 2 ppm in small hollowware, or 1 ppm in large hollowware. Cadmium may not exceed 0.5 ppm in flatware, 0.5 ppm in small hollowware, or 0.25 in large hollowware.