Lead-tainted product recalls are becoming increasingly common in North America because of excessive lead found in everything from toys to jewelry and even lunch boxes.  Unfortunately, there is another possible source of lead in our lives - our dishes - specifically in our china.

The FDA allows manufacturers to finish plates, bowls and mugs with glazes that contain lead at the amount of three parts per million. The resulting finish is a smooth veneer that allows bright colors and elaborate patterns to show through. Imported dishes may contain even higher levels. But hasn’t it been proven that there isn’t a safe amount of lead exposure?

Lead is a potent toxin that can affect individuals in any age group. Absorbed through eating and breathing, lead accumulates in the body, so even very small doses can pose a health hazard over a longer period of time.

Lead poisoning is the leading environmentally induced illness in children. At greatest risk are children under the age of six because they are undergoing rapid neurological and physical development. Lead exposure in children can cause learning disabilities, mental disability, impaired visual and motor functions, stunted growth, neurological and organ damage, and hearing loss, according to the Environmental Defense Fund. In adults, it is also associated with hypertension, cancer, and reproductive complications.

According to Dr. Dan Hryhorczuk, a professor of public health at the University of Illinois-Chicago “There is no safe level of lead in the blood in terms of effects on the brain,” Hryhorczuk said. “Any amount of lead has the potential to affect neurobehavioral performance.”

So now, not only do we have to worry about lead on our children’s toys but also in the dishes we serve their meals in, as well as our own meals. According to Dr. Hryhorczuk, recent studies have shown that children with less than 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood suffer from lower IQs. New research also found that it is nearly impossible to remove lead from a child’s body once it gets in the brain or bones.  To safeguard children and our families from possible toxic exposure, there are some things we can do to minimize the risk of encountering lead.

Glass & Wooden Dishes.

Purchase dishes with no apparent glazes such as glass or wooden dishes and plates. There are many new lines of glass, steel and wooden eco-friendly, lead-free dishes.

Hand Wash Dishes

Hand wash dishes you think might contain lead. Dishwasher’s heat and intensity can damage lead-glazed surfaces, contaminating other items in the washer. Microwaving plates can cause lead to leach into the food that is being heated. According to a report published by the Environmental Defense Fund, it is better to microwave food in glassware or white plates and bowls, as they are less likely to contain lead. To play it safe, always reheat food in heat safe glassware.

Food & Lead

Be careful of the foods you choose to serve on the dishes you believe may contain lead. Serve only low-acid foods such as vegetables, rice, milk, beans and grains on dishes you suspect may contain lead.  A 2006 report by the Department of California Agriculture showed that acidic foods such as salad dressings, soy sauce, and tomato sauce, could eat away the dishes glaze thus exposing you to lead.

Take Your Vitamins

Eat foods that are high in calcium, iron and vitamin C. Nutrient-deficient bodies absorb lead more easily. Milk yogurt and green leafy vegetables provide calcium; fish and iron-fortified cereal, are an excellent source of iron and oranges, tomatoes and green peppers contain vitamin C. Try to avoid saturated fats as they aid in lead absorption.

Avoid Heirloom Dishes

Avoid using heirloom dishes. They are great to treasure and display from a far but if you suspect they contain lead, it might be better to not use them to eat from serve food on.

Choose Child Safe Dishes

Don’t take any chances when it comes to your children. Serve children’s food and drink in glass, stainless steel or wood.