#AskTamara: Which dishes are Lead-free? Pioneer Woman? Wedgwood? Franciscan? Blue Willow? Fiestaware? Heath?
For those new to the Lead Safe Mama website:
Tamara Rubin is a multiple-federal-award-winning independent advocate for childhood Lead poisoning prevention and consumer goods safety, and a documentary filmmaker. She is also a mother of Lead-poisoned children (two of her four sons were acutely Lead-poisoned in 2005).
- Tamara owns and runs Lead Safe Mama, LLC — a unique community collaborative woman-owned small business for childhood Lead poisoning prevention and consumer goods safety.
- Since July of 2022, the work of Lead Safe Mama, LLC has been responsible for five product recalls (FDA and CPSC).
- All test results reported on this website are science-based, accurate, and replicable.
- Please check out our press page to see some of the amazing coverage of our work so far this year!
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Originally published: December 5, 2018
Updated: December 28, 2019
Question(s):
- Which dishes are Lead-Free?
- How can I tell if my dishes are Lead-Free?
- How do I find Lead-Free dishes?
Answer: I constantly get this question, and there isn’t one answer that makes everyone happy, but I will share my guidelines here and a few links for places you can start your inquiry.
First and foremost, I want to make it clear I am a lot more comfortable telling people what NOT to buy vs. suggesting what you “should” buy.
The reasoning behind that is as follows: if a company makes a product with Lead once (ever), then it is easy for me to tell you to steer clear of that brand because they have a history of Lead in their products. In most cases (with very few exceptions), there are just too many possible variables out there with manufacturing to consistently guarantee that any one brand or style might always be Lead-free.
That said, in recent years I have probably tested thousands of different types of dishes and am confident (like in the 99% range) that the following brand and style (or specific pattern) recommendations are likely to be either Lead-free or Lead-safe — when looking only at new product inventory (2018 and newer).
I also want to be clear that this could change at any time.
A company can change its manufacturing source, labeling, glaze, or substrate, and any of these changes could make my recommendations no longer valid. So, please DO NOT just read the names of the brands on the images and headers below and assume those brands are Lead-safe across the board. This is simply NOT true.
Instead, please take the time to read the sections below each headline and click on each of the related images to read the related articles with specific XRF test results, along with reasoned arguments as to why that product may (or may not) be a good choice based on the testing I have done — and my personal experiences with the companies/the materials used by each company, as a rule.
An overview of some additional considerations before you start clicking:
#1.) Is Corelle Lead-free?
New Corelle is going to be Lead-free as long as it is any of the plain white patterns. This includes embossed patterns (one of which is my favorite Corelle pattern, Bella Faenza!). This assessment has held true across decades of their products. The colorful decorations on both old and new Corelle can be high in Lead, Cadmium, or both. The older the dishes are, the more Lead and/or Cadmium they will generally have. This is the brand I chose for my home — in the Lead-free plain white style.
#2.) Is Fiestaware Lead-free?
Old Fiestaware is high in Lead and other toxicants (very unsafe!). Brand-new Fiestaware is either low-Lead (below 90 ppm generally) or Lead-Free. Some of the colors do have trace Cadmium or even trace Arsenic, so I encourage you to read through all the different articles for each Fiesta color I have tested before making a choice to go with that brand. Also, I cannot guarantee that the Lead, Cadmium, or Arsenic levels in the glazes of this brand might not go up in future years — so please stay tuned for additional test results here. I think they are generally a safer choice, although I would not choose these for my home personally.
#3.) Is Anchor Hocking Lead-free?
#4.) Is Libbey Lead-free?
New clear glass products (with brands including Libbey, Anchor Hocking, and others) tend to be consistently Lead-free. They are a great choice. Even the cheap ones at Target and Walmart are generally Lead-free. Sometimes the tinted ones — with a slightly bluish or greenish tint in the clear glass (from these brands) — will test positive for low levels of Lead, but generally, I do not have a concern for potential Lead toxicity with new products from these brands in these styles.
#5.) Is Lenox Lead-free?
Lenox: I have tested a few newer versions of their traditional patterns. Some of these newer versions have been Lead-safe or Lead-free. All bets are off for older versions, though — and given their history of Lead-use in the past, I don’t have a ton of confidence that all of their new patterns will necessarily be Lead-free (but the specific versions I have tested and shared about on this website linked via the image below, are).
#6.) Is Princess House Lead-free?
Princess House seems to be a magical anomaly. From what I understand, they are no longer manufactured (and were sold via a Tupperware-style sales model through the early 1990s?). Every single piece of Princess House I have ever tested has been Lead-free! (Why did they stop making them!!! Darn!!!) UPDATE: While the above still holds true — that I have not yet tested a piece of Princess House that was positive for Lead — since first publishing this article it has come to my attention that Princess House ALSO manufactured a line of Leaded crystal products. This muddies the waters a bit, as (unless you have the original packaging) you might not know if you have a Leaded crystal piece or one of their non-Leaded pieces. Normally, the Leaded crystal pieces will have sharper lines, whereas their Lead-free pressed glass pieces tend to have intricate designs with more rounded edges on the decorative elements. Their Lead-free pieces normally have press lines as well. Check out this article to see what a press line looks like. You might start by looking up Princess Houses pieces on eBay to get a sense of what the Leaded crystal pieces look like (they are normally marked and sold as “Leaded crystal” on eBay in my experience).
#7.) Is Heath Ceramics Lead-free?
I LOVE the feel, look, and color palette of Heath Ceramics. They are a relatively small pottery studio based out of Sausalito, California. The recent pieces I have tested from them have been either Lead-free or Lead safe. That said, my bestest friend from Marin — who got married c. 1997 — got Heath for her wedding china that year. When I tested her particular wedding set a few years ago, they were, in fact, very high Lead! Accordingly, I re-emphasize my word of caution here: Only. Buy. New.
-
- I had put a call into Heath recently to discuss the possibility of creating a Lead Safe Mama-branded line of dishes … I do intend to follow up with them about that as well. As with any glazed ceramics, it is always possible in the future that Lead and Cadmium levels can vary by batch, and that is why I don’t choose these for my own home. (If I did a co-branded signature line of ceramics, I would adopt extra measures to ensure the items in my line were perpetually 100% Lead-free in both the substrates and glazes.)
#8.) Are Crate & Barrel dishes Lead-free?
#9.) Are Sur La Table dishes Lead-free?
Lastly, Crate & Barrel and Sur La Table. These lines are essentially the same, in my opinion, so my comments apply to both brands. There are several Lead-free style options from these brands (usually only the plain white ones can be guaranteed to be Lead-free on the food surface). In the past, the back logo area of even the plain white ones (that are otherwise Lead-free), tested high Lead. The main indicator of whether or not the back mark is Leaded is if you can feel it when you run your finger over it. If you cannot feel it it is very likely the white dish is all the way Lead-free (this applies only with these brands and only with their latest models). Please read the specific articles from testing I have done on these brands for more information. NOTE: I would not trust anything with colors from Sur La Table — as historically, a lot of their colorful tableware has been positive for high levels of Lead. Pottery Barn white dishes might seem to fall in this same category, but as a rule, I don’t like Pottery Barn because they have had too many products with Lead in their history (across the board — not just dishes, but tables, children’s water bottles, decorative items, children’s toys, etc.).
Can I look up my exact dishes on your website?
Other ways to find Lead-free dishes on this website:
There are many more Lead-free dishware options here on the site than the ones listed in this article, and there are a few tools here to help you find them (among the 1,700 articles and pages of information here that you can sort through). Here’s how to use the site to find even more options:
- Check out our site’s index. The whole opening section is items sorted by tags that start with “Lead-Free.” The very first tab there is “Lead-Free Dishes.”
- Use the search bar on the site. Put in any keywords, like “Lead-Free Mugs” and scroll through the search results. You can also search by brand and material — like “Lenox,” “glass,” or even “clear glass.”
- On each and every article, at the top (under the title, but above the text and images of the piece), is a fairly exhaustive list of tags and keywords for that article. Click on ANY ONE of those keywords to find all of the other pieces with that keyword (like “Lead-Free,” “Mugs,” “Lead-Free Mugs,” or “Starbucks Mugs”).
- Check out the recommendations on the LEAD SAFE MAMA AMAZON STORE.
- Check out the recommendations in the “SAFER CHOICES” overview.
What are the prettiest Lead-free dishes?
At one point a good friend asked me, “… but which pretty dishes are Lead-free?! I want some nice (fancy!) dishes that don’t have Lead!” The answer to that question, my friend, is… I just don’t have an answer for you. The more “fancy” your dishes are, the more likely they are to have Lead (with newer dishes especially). Consequently, my recommendation across the board is that you should “rely on your food to decorate your table, not your dishes!”
As always, please let me know if you have any questions at all. I will do my best to answer them personally. When you ask questions as a comment on this article, that helps others as well as yourself because other readers will benefit from your question and my answer — so that is my preferred way to receive questions.
Thank you for reading and for sharing this work. LeadSafeMama.com earns money from advertising income when people read these articles (you don’t need to click on the ads for us to earn $). Just sharing an article on your Facebook, Twitter, or elsewhere (in an e-mail with friends) helps support Lead Safe Mama, LLC, and keep us doing what we do.
Tamara Rubin
#LeadSafeMama
Each of the images below is a link to articles that mention Lead-free choices from the brand featured. Thanks again for clicking!
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🙂
About your comment above about Princess House – you can often find it sometimes brand new in garage sales and estate sales. I’ve seen a lot of it and have some. If someone in their family sold it, kids sell it pretty cheap without knowing it’s value.
Alas though, I think my garage sale days are over! ☹ Threw out too much stuff the last few weeks. I would never have guessed about the amount of lead in dishes and other articles meant to be used for food! So very sad state of things today.
Is there a test we can purchase to see if our dishes contain lead? My everyday dishes were purchased years ago in Bed Bath and Beyond. There is only a letter on the bottom, so I really have no idea who even manufactured them. P.S. They are black! So I’m guessing they probably contain lead. Ironically, I don’t microwave anything in plastic, I put the food in these dishes, so I’m probably shooting myself in the foot!
Thank you!
Hi Sabrina,
Thank you for commenting. Here’s a post that discusses that: https://tamararubin.com/2017/02/ask-tamara-q-can-i-test-my-dishes-for-lead-with-a-leadcheck-swab-a-sometimes-but-not-always-click-to-read-more/
There are also a few black dishes here on the blog, look up keywords “black” “black glaze” or “black ceramic” using the search bar and see what you find – you might not be as bad off as you think!
Tamara
Corelli says that the paint on corelle dishes is covered with a layer of glass, so the lead paint does not get into your food.
They are not correct (mistaken or intentionally lying). Please watch the videos at the top of this article:
https://tamararubin.com/2022/08/breaking-news-august-2022-corelle-instant-brands-confirms-but-downplays-the-presence-of-leaded-glaze-used-for-the-food-surface-decorations-of-their-vintage-dishware/
Overview article too:
https://tamararubin.com/2022/12/corelle-are-your-vintage-dishes-safe-for-use-with-food-probably-not/
In the subtitle of this article Pioneer Woman is mentioned but not commented on.
Are they safe?
Many thanks for the the work you do!
Best,
Joni
Hi Joni,
Here’s the link to Pioneer Woman testing I have done: https://tamararubin.com/category/pioneer-woman/
Thank you for commenting!
Tamara
Thank you! How disappointingly enlightening. We greatly appreciate your work.
Best,
Joni
Hi Joni,
Thank you for commenting.
Tamara
Hello! I looked pretty extensively through your site and saw a lot of Pioneer Woman products, but they’re all the very colorful items. Have you tested, or do you know what the safety might be of any of the basic uncolored collections? I’m just curious if it’s primarily the paint or the glaze that is the issue, and if the glaze, is it the same on uncolored dishes as on painted / colored ones? These are the ones I have in mind:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/53967684
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/329020722
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/46039982
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/46039970
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/53965552
Have you tested Mikasa Ben Seibel Duplex?
What about HF Coors?
Just follow the instructions on the post to look for examples on my site. I’ll also see if I can get you a link.
Here’s one example – it looks like I only have one up on my site right now (I have not tested very many from this brand): https://tamararubin.com/category/hf-coors/
Hi Brianne, so I looked through my files and found two other HF Coors examples. One was a Lead-free white plate and the other was a low-Lead / Lead-safe white plate. Someone also brought up Duralex plates as a possible Lead-free choice. I have tested quite a few Duralex items but I don’t recall that I have ever tested a Duralex plate so I cannot speak to that with 100% certainty, but an educated guess would be that Duralex glass plates are also likely Lead-free or Lead-safe. Additionally I recently purchased an assortment of plates from the Dollar Store and those have also turned out to be Lead-Free or Lead-Safe, and the Chip & Joanna ceramics seem to be in the Lead-safe range, as do the Chrissy Teigen Cravings Ceramics (Lead-free or Lead-safe.)
What about Portmerion, Botanical Gardens?? That was an old pattern made 30 years ago, and they continued to pump it out for 25 years. It has lots of color in the floral and fruit prints. They were not CHEAP dishes.
THX!
JJ Daniels
Very high lead – look up Portmerion using the search bar.
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/portmeirion-the-botanic-garden-circa-1818-mug-1972-49700-ppm-lead-90-ppm-is-unsafe-cadmium-too/
https://tamararubin.com/2017/12/portmeirion-coffee-mug-with-heart-pattern-design-49000-ppm-lead-for-context-90-ppm-is-unsafe-for-kids/
What about Luminarc clear glass plates (in design called Canterbury)? You often see the salad plates from this line used in dining establishments. We’ve been using the entire set in our home thinking they would be a safe alternative to the Doulton Everyday (Jacobean design) that we had been using.
Per the post I don’t have any concern for new clear glass dishware.
Here’s another post where I also mention Luminarc as a good choice: https://tamararubin.com/2018/01/recommended-mugs/
Does this mean the Royal Doulton Everyday (Jacobean) is not safe? This is the only reference I’ve found regarding this pattern.
Hi Debi,
Thank you for commenting.
If you put “Royal Doulton” in the search bar here on the blog you will find examples from that brand that I have tested.
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
Have you tested anything by Denby?
Crate and Barrel have white plates in a few different styles/lines. Is there a particular line that you are referring to?
The link clicks through to the ones I have tested.
The squares on the bottom click through.
Read point #7 on the post.
Princess house is still around and very prevalent in the Lancaster County Amish communities! They always have parties and usually I’ll find a catalog in tow with them 🙂
Their stuff is so well made and beautiful! But you WILL pay a price for them. Not saying that is a bad thing considering the quality
They have a website that you can purchase from
https://www.princesshouse.com/products/category/Dinnerware?lid=0
Now I’m wondering if all of their products are safe, even the colored plates because if so is like to buy some!
Hi Tamara,
Do you have any information regarding lead in the dishes sold in Ikea. I purchased white dining plates and bowls manufactured in France and also clear glass mugs manufactured in Russia a couple of years ago. Now the identical dishes, according to the labels on their bottom, are made in China. If you have any information on those items I would greatly appreciate your comment.
Thank you in advance
Alex
Hello –
Is clear glass safe? Clear glass pyrex, and clear glass drinking glasses?
I realize that crystal can be leaded. I am asking more on basic drinking glasses that are clear glass.
Also do you have experience with herend china?
Hi Tamara,
I have recently purchased Libby and Anchor Hocking products. You mentioned for plates these brands are safe, but I wanted to get ur thoughts on the items below… A few said they were made form recycled glass. They are all clear glass except for the red writing on the measuring cup…
* Anchor Hocking Café Glass Coffee Mugs
* Anchor Hocking Presence 6 Inch Glass
Cereal Bowl
* Anchor Hocking Oven Basics 15-Piece Glass
Bakeware Set with Casserole Dish, Pie Plate,
Measuring Cup, Mixing Bowl, and Custard
Cups with Lids
* Libbey 12-1/2-Ounce Vibe Storage Jars
* Libbey Small Glass Bowls with Lids, 6.25
ounce
Thanks for all ur help!!
Hi Letty!
The clear glass should be fine. The red writing on the measuring cup will likely be high Cadmium.
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
Would you please test the Mainstays dishes in Walmart next time when you were there? Because I as well as many of my friends are using this economical 12-pc Mainstays dish set. Would really appreciate it!
Thanks!
Jing
Hi Jing!
I’ll see what I can do! 🙂 Thank you so much for your support of my work!
T
Hi Tamara,
Thank you for all of your hard work to help protect everyone! I’m also interested in seeing if the “Mainstays 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, White” that I purchased from Walmart has lead in it. I purchased 2 sets and have enjoyed using them. I was about to order another set when I was made aware of the issue with some dinnerware containing lead. Now, I’m not sure I want to use the ones that I just purchased – much less purchase more. They are pretty darn heavy. They were cheap to purchase (only $10) – of course, they’re not worth the savings if I end up poisoning myself by using them. They do get very warm in the microwave – but only the portion that the hot food is touching – the rest of the plate remains cool to the touch. I’d really appreciate any testing information that you could share with me.
Here is the link to the product on Walmart’s website.
Mainstays 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, White
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-12-Piece-Dinnerware-Set-White/759813360
Thanks!
Jason
Dear Tamara ,Thank you for all your efforts on the job that you have done in trying to awere people in how to stay healthy.
Can you please test for this Corelle
French White Stoneware .
They have a lot of different serving casseroles ,cups ,bowls etc.From 4 oz to lo larger ones.
I’m new on your web,please let me know how to communicate with you.
Thanks ,Nydia
Hi Tamara,
I was wondering what your thoughts are on the potential for tempered glass like Corelle or Duralex to spontaneously explode?
I was about to replace all our dinner/glassware with Corelle and Duralex when I came across all of these complaints and articles about tempered glasses or dishes just exploding on their own, and not in safe pieces (people have been cut by shards like shrapnel).
I’m wondering if trace lead within safe levels below 90ppm like in Fiesta ceramics is better than potentially losing your eyesight from a glass explosion near the face.
I am stuck, and would love your opinion. Thanks so much for the invaluable work you are doing!
Best,
Veronica
I am now freaking out. I have lived many years now attempting to buy only safe products for myself and my family. Using vintage Pyrex assuming that it was safer because it’s not made in China. Only organic. No VOC’s. Etc. Now I’m looking around my kitchen realizing I haven’t done enough. I’ll be clearing out my Pyrex. I have Heath dishes, but made back in the early 90’s. They were our wedding dishes. 🙁
I’m concerned that I exposed my son with these. Glad I get to keep my Corning Vision glass dishes/pots and glass mason jars, which we use for drinking and storing. What about Corelle white dishes with the little design on the edges? We use them daily. And the vintage brown drinking glasses with the honeycomb like exterior? Ugghh… Thank you so much for what you do.
Hi again Cheryll,
Baby steps and a deep breath! It’s easy to find lead-free options. My best friend got married in 1998 and had Heath for her wedding too. I tested them a few years ago and they were VERY HIGH LEAD (like in the 60,000 ppm range). While the company is under new ownership I think they are a great company and stand by their products and their new products (that I have tested) are either Lead-free or Lead-safe (I have a few examples here on the site) and they may accept an exchange for like dishes that are modern – if you ask. I don’t know for sure about this, but it would be worth asking.
There are lots of examples of the Corelle on my site. Just pop “Corelle” in the search bar and scroll through them. The designs are almost always positive for some amount of either Lead or Cadmium (the older they are the more toxic they are, generally.)
Tamara
Hi,
I recently purchased the wheatstraw bowls and plates from iTavah because we have toddlers and our bowls and plates kept getting broken. We have been using them for a few months, but I am now concerned about lead or other heavy metals after discovering your page. Have you done any testing on bowls such as these?
Thanks,
Miranda
Hi Miranda,
I don’t believe I have heard of this brand. Can you share a link?
– Tamara
Hi Tamara,
Do you have any information on BENNINGTON POTTERS?
Thank you.
Hi Tamara,
We have been using the Churchill Blue WIllow dishes made in Staffordshire, England for about 23 years.They look exactly like the Blue Willow Johnson ones you have above. Now on your site I see that they may be toxic. My son is ill and has been using these since he was about 8. I am very concerned and don’t know how to have the XRF testing or another method for testing the dishes. Also, how do I test for leaching? As soon as I read your article we stopped using them, but the damage would have been done over 23 years.We need to know if these dishes have lead, cadmium, etc. I have googled XRF labs but cannot find anything. I don’t know how to go about having the dishes tested to see if they are what have made him so sick.
If you want to send me a small saucer to test, I could do that for you. I usually charge a small fee to help cover the cost of the testing, but if you send it to me and I write about it for my blog and included it in my collection of leaded things (hopefully for a future museum exhibit) then I don’t need to charge. Wrap it well so it doesn’t break. The lead level will not tell you for sure if it is leaching, but if it is vintage and comes in at 20,000 ppm or higher – then it is most likely leaching… (and a lot of these Blue Willows come in at 40,000 or 50,000 ppm or higher.) Here’s a post about a dish that poisoned a kiddo that you might find interesting: https://tamararubin.com/2018/04/a-short-story-of-a-small-vintage-ceramic-bowl-from-wisconsin-and-a-boy-that-was-poisoned/
Here’s a post about the testing I do: https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
You can send me a dish with a note (reminding me who you are – as I get a lot of packages) to:
Tamara Rubin
#LeadSafeMama
7933 SE 15th Avenue
Portland, OR 97202
Thanks!
Thank you so much for responding so quickly. I will overnight mail it on Monday morning, April 22. Of course you can keep the small bowl. It is not vintage, I purchased the set new some time between 1992 and 1995 at a supermarket. If it does have the amount of lead 40,000 to 50,000 ppm higher then who can I send a piece to for leach testing?
Again, thank you so much for your help.
Marci
Hi Tamara,
My Churchill bowl was delivered to your side door around 2:50 your time today. Thank you for your help. We have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow so when you get a chance to test it It will be most appreciated.. Thank you so much.
Oh! k! My husband is home. I am out of town for 6 days and will get back to you when I return! 🙂
Tamara
Thanks. Do you know of anyone in south florida that does XRF testing?
Thank you.
No – but I will send you an e-mail and see if we can find someone to help you!
T
thank you
Hi Tamara,
So sorry if you are receiving this message twice a it did not appear to go through the first time. I hope you had a good trip. I was wondering if you had a chance to XRF test the Churchill blue willow bowl that I sent to you? You can keep the bowl for your upcoming show. Thanks so much.
Marci
Hi Tamara,
I guess I will wait for you to return to get the results from you. It does not seem that I can get results any sooner from somewhere else.At least the bowl has reached your home and is there waiting
Thanks again so much for your help and I will wait to hear back from you when you return.
Have a safe trip.
Marci
Thank you Tamara very much for your wonderful work. Could you please test violet glass called Miron glass. It has been marketed as the best glass containers for preserving natural products like water, oils, herbs and natural cosmetics. I bought a number of them and I am using them for these purposes. Recently I become concerned that their claims might not be completely truthful, but more so that the glass might not be lead free. If that is ok I could send you a jar or a bottle.
I would, also, love for this type of glass jar/bottle to be tested for lead. 🙂 I have heard of all the benefits of storing foods, supplements, essential oils, etc., in MIRON violet glass jars/bottles, but its color leads me to believe that there may be lead in them (defeating the purposes of using this ‘healthier’ jar in the first place)!
Tamara, You had said that I could send you a Churchill Blue Willow dish for XRF testing and to include a note reminding you of who I am. I sent the dish about two weeks ago and it was delivered to your house. I included a note and payment for testing, but I have not heard back from you regarding lead, mercury, etc. I am not sure what happened but, if you could let me know if you are going to test the plate I would really appreciate it. Thank you so much.
Marci
Hi Marci! I am just seeing this comment from May! Was your dish posted? Let me know and if not I will dig around to see if it somehow got misplaced. It usually takes me 6 to 8 weeks to post results.
Tamara
Hello! You mention the Corelle white dishes a lot as being safe and lead free, but I was wondering about the ones called “Sandstone.” They are also plain, no design, but are sort of sand colored or beige. Also, I have tons of Pfaltzgraff Folk Art dishes, made in USA from the 1970’s or 1980’s I think. How do I find out how much lead might be in them? Thank you very much.
So was just the Vitrelle tested or also the other white pieces such as the winter white? Thank you so much! Trying to replace our old dishes for a more safe option.
Hi, I haven’t seen anything regarding Denby dishware on your site. Do you think this is a trustworthy brand? They seem to be a little more affordable than the HF Coors I’m considering.
Thank you so much!
Hi. I have 100-year-old bone china from the Czech republic – gorgeous. I used the Lead Check test and it did not rest positive. Can I be sure ? Is there somewhere I can send a piece to have it checked for certain?
Hi Tamara,
Have you tested anything from Denby? I e-mailed them a few days ago and I am a bit confused. The customer service representative informed me that they add no lead to the products during manufacturing and their products yield ‘no detectable levels of lead or cadmium’ when leach tested. From what I have gathered from one source, ‘no detectable lead’ is understood to mean anything below 200 ppm. However, they added that they test their raw materials internally and that their goal was to meet or exceed the international requirements for food contact materials, including the stringent Californian Proposition 65 warning limits. I have heard that these limits are the strictest in the world but am not sure what the lead limit for this is?
Hi Natasha,
Many companies that are compliant with current regulatory standards still have lead in their products unfortunately. I don’t seem to have any Denby products on my blog. Here’s how to participate in the testing that I do: https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
Tamara
The “technical manager” at Denby sent me this today: “Our glazes are consistently below minimum detection levels for ICP-OES analysis method at 0.1 PPM Lead and 0.02 PPM Cadmium.”
I have my grandmother’s fancy dishes made in Occupied Japan. They are white/beige with green leaves around the edges and gold rims. She used them only for special occasions and I did so as well a few times. I imagine they have lead but wonder if you know. I’m thinking of getting rid of them if they’re toxic. Thank you. Lynn
Hi Lynn,
Thank you for commenting. Vintage Japanese dishes with Japanese characters on the bottom are often (usually) Lead-free. Vintage Japanese dishes that say “Japan” or “Made in Japan” on the bottom (made for export the U.S. market), often have Lead (not always, but often!)
Tamara
Thank you!
Welcome 🙂
Have a Lead-safe holiday!
– Tamara
I have corningware tableware, casual China bowls. Plain white, no decorations. I havent been able to find on your site if these have lead or not? Or how to find that out. Thank you!
Hi Lynn,
Are they ceramic? or glass?
Tamara
(Correction – please could you answer this one instead?)
Thank you so much for your extensive work and information here! Do you think Luminarc’s Canterbury clear glass dishes currently on the market are most likely lead safe and cadmium safe? Here are two links of them; the first shows 4 pieces at BB&B, while the Amazon link shows the 3 pieces they have:
https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/luminarc-canterbury-dinnerware-collection/210655?keyword=luminarc-canterbury
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Luminarc+Canterbury&i=garden&ref=nb_sb_noss_2
Have you ever tested Wedgewood China? I have the Wedgewood India pattern from about 20 years ago and now I’m wondering if its a problem.
Hi Carren!
Thanks for commenting. Here’s the Wedgwood category on my blog, click the link and there are quite a few posts in the category:
https://tamararubin.com/category/wedgwood/
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
I contacted Corelle as to order new dishes but they would not say their white dishes are lead free only saying they were within guidelines. So I just wanted to find out if they were tested to be lead free before I purchase them.
Thank you so much
Hi J., yes they have been tested, I have many posts about them. Here’s one: https://tamararubin.com/2018/11/corelle-vitrelle-plain-white-bowl-purchased-new-in-2017-lead-free/
Thank you for commenting!
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
First, thanks so much for doing this work. I have a question about Corelle — you listed items that are lead-free, but are they also cadmium-free?
Many thanks!
For each item I test I put both the Lead and Cadmium readings. Look through some of the examples of the Corelle. Generally as long as there is no paint on them they are also Cadmium free. If the new Corelle have painted decorative elements they often have Camdium at levels that would be considered illegal in Denmark.
Thanks for commenting – Joe.
Tamara
What does it mean I have Nikki ironstone that says glaze tested made in Japan. They are I believe the jonquil pattern thank you
Hi Deb – a lot of the Ironstone marked dishes I have tested have been very high lead. In the absence of specific tests for those particular dishes I would stop using them. You can buy new glass dishes at the Dollar Store or Walmart – usually for about $1 a dish – so replacing them (or finding other dishes to use until you can have yours tested) does not have to be an expensive proposition.
Here’s the Ironstone category here on the blog. There are three examples to look at: https://tamararubin.com/category/ironstone/
Thanks for commenting.
Tamara
Hi, I am wondering if Franciscan Ivy ll embossed canisters are lead free?
Thanks so much!
debbie
Hi Debbie – Everything “Franciscan Ivy” is usually very high lead, among the highest Lead items I have ever tested. Here are a couple of posts:
1) https://tamararubin.com/2018/06/franciscan-ware-potteries-franciscan-ivy-pattern-serving-tray-c-1948/
2) https://tamararubin.com/2016/12/ivy/
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
I’ve been looking through your website as I’m in process of buying new dishes. I see that new white fiestaware is generally I. Safe levels (under 90 ppm lead). I’m wondering if you know cadmium levels on white new fiestaware? What about the alumina oxide fiesta includes, is that safe?
I currently have this set at home: https://www.target.com/p/porcelain-16pc-coupe-dinnerware-set-white-threshold-153/-/A-14172066. I saw you guerrilla tested a bunch of white Target dishes back in 2017. Is it safe to assume these are lead and cadmium free too?
Thank you!
Sarah
I am wondering about Royal Doulton Pacific purchased new since 2017…do you if its lead content is safe?
Hi Mary – it may be. I have no way to know without testing though.
Tamara
Hi Tamara, Thank you for the info. What do you think of this brand?https://www.emersoncreekpottery.com/product/pearl-classic-mug/
I love the Heath brand so much too but I’m leaning towards the Corelle for our home since you mentioned that cadmium and lead can vary from batch to batch with ceramics.
Hi Paloma,
I think the people who run that company are bullies. I found lead in their pottery and in response to contacting them about it they sent me a threatening note (threatening legal action if I published my results.) I was busy at the time (last year) so I did not publish it (along with my findings) but I intend to do so sometime – maybe your comment is enough to prompt me to do this!
Tamara
Hi Tamara,
Do you have any experience with Bennington Potters? They claim that all their products are lead and cadmium free.
I was looking to buy a Teapot there.
https://www.benningtonpotters.com/product/personal-teapot
Thank you.
Ann
Hi Ann,
I have tested some of their pieces and found some of them to have trace Lead in the substrate (at what might be considered “naturally occurring levels” – in the 20 to 40 ppm range, not an additive to the glaze or clay.) In my experience their glazes are lead-free. I don’t believe any one of my readers has sent me a piece of theirs yet to do a full workup on.
Tamara
Thank you Tamara,
I appreciate you response.
Ann
I just bought one and had it shipped to me so I can test it and do a blog post write up, since I get this question a lot!
🙂
– T
I went to a thrift store and purchased 2 sets of clear glass dinner and salad plates, I searched online and saw they are Arcoroc Coquillage (clear glass seashell scallop pattern) and a Luminarc Canterbury set, which also had coffee mugs.
Would you please tell me if you know when these were manufactured and if there is any cause to worry regarding Lead content?
(I sent an email to Arcoroc as well)
I also found some 1 quart pyrex clear glass bowls (said you could microwave them) with 71201 A, made in USA which I plan to use for big stew bowls. Should those be ok to use?
On a tight budget and hoped to find safe dishes at bargain prices.
Wow. So even new glass measuring cups are tainted by the exterior markings? I JUST bought a new Anchor Hocking 4 c. measuring cup!! What does that leave us with for measuring? I mean, yes there are plastic and metal, but opaque is harder to get accurate reading, particularly on liquids (for me, anyway), and I really, really want to avoid plastic. And I bet all my old metal measuring cups and spoons are toxic, too. Arrrrrrggghhhh!
Hi there!
Here’s my post about choosing a Lead-free measuring cup: https://tamararubin.com/2016/12/measuring/
Tamara
Princess House did make lead crystal goblets for sure- the ones with cut stems-and probably other items. They discontinued them in the early 90s I think when the FDA made recommendations about using lead crystals (or not using!). Thankful they educated their representatives who educated their customers.
Hello, Are the following dishes: Oneida Pyramid (white)dishes, Jepcor International, and Churchill (made in Staffordshire, England) dishes lead-free and safe to use?
My daughter just received some Oster solid white glass dishes as a gift. They have fluted edges sort of like a pie plate. They remind me of Corelle. I’ve searched your blog and the only Oster that comes up are blenders. Do you know if they have lead, cadmium or arsenic in them?
Any idea if Lagostina or Safdie & Co dishes are safe?
https://i2.wp.com/tamararubin.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Franciscan4b-e1482878434846.jpg?ssl=1
This plate was listed above in the post but, not sure if it’s safe or not ! I have a set from wedding gift 1973… we use every holiday !!
Concerned !!! Thanks for all you do to make us aware!!
I would not use these for food-use purposes, Nancy. And if you have been using them on a regular basis I would consider asking your doctor about getting a Lead test that might show any potential chronic low level Lead exposure (like a urine or hair test, vs. a blood test.) If you truly only use for holidays, maybe don’t do that any more… For me I just don’t consider it to be worth the risk (given the potential impacts of even low level exposure to Lead.)
Here’s a post with more of the “why” behind that: https://tamararubin.com/topics/does-vintage-and-new-functional-pottery-and-dishware-have-unsafe-levels-of-lead/
Tamara
I’m not sure if I missed them but do you know if the Blush Verona glasses from World Market are safe of any toxins? Thank you so much
I recently purchased some Dover& York colorful printed bowls and plates from Family Dollar store. The patterns appear to be computer printed and they have one color pattern inside the bowl and a different pattern outside. They are a thin porceline or ceramic stoneware. Not sure. You buy them indiviually. Could you test them if you have time? Thank you and thanks for your site.
You mention that you use the Corelle Embossed Bella Faenza dishes. I know many of the Corelle cups/mugs are made in China while the plates and bowls are still made in the USA. Do you know where the Bella Faenza cups are made? and are they lead free? Also it appears that Corelle is once again selling the Impressions Watercolors series of dishes. Do you know if these are lead free? I was actually considering buying them but now anything with color worries me. Thanks so much.
Cindy
Thank you so much Tamara for all you do. You are a true warrior!
I was wondering if you consider Duralex a good option for glass dishes and bowls? They seem to have a good track record on your testings for their glasses. I am a member of Irina Webb’s inner SCC and she says it’s a good option. I was hoping to get your opinion.
I just tried purchasing some glass Libbey dishes but those have a slight blue tint. I want a 100% lead-free kitchen!
Hi Tamara,
I have a special need child who is only able to use Tommee Tippee free flow trainer cup. I have been trying to find if it is lead free. Also Do you have any free flow recommendations for the kids supply cup?
Thank you
zoe
Hi Tamara,
I wanted to know if the dishes have lead in their glaze , does it leach into the food if you eat from those plates or bowls. Have you had a chance to test Villeroy& Boch, I use their dinnerware everyday it is called Mariefleur collection. It has some colored flowers on it, I bought them 2 yrs ago. Have you tested any of their products. I also have Wedgewood-Oberon collection and Renaissance gold and Aaris collection. Have you tested any of these collection pieces. Also Lenox Federal gold and Garden Grove collection. Thanks for all the work you do.
I have dinnerware from World Market that is made in Portugal and microwave/dishwasher safe. Every time we use the bowls in the microwave it leaches a black sticky residue the along the the rim and on the outside of the dish. There is also an odor than accompanies it. Is lead leaching visible? I have serious concerns about using these dishes. Do you have any experience with this type of leaching after heating in the microwave? Thank you for your time.
Hi Tamara,
Is recycled glass is bad? For example, there are few companies making borosilicate glassware from recycled glass in Europe, and they say that their products are completely free of lead and cadmium . Is it possible?
Hi Anna.
Thanks for commenting. I am not sure I have tested examples of the type of product that you are talking about. Do you have a link or picture you could share with me so I can have better context? In general recycled glass is more likely to have Lead – with potential for it to be added at every stage of the manufacturing process.
Tamara
Hi Tamara, thank you for all this incredible work. It’s upsetting to learn but so critical that more people are aware of this and can make informed decisions, especially with little ones. I just can’t believe how difficult it is to find lead free dishes without coming to your blog. I have a favorite set and wanted to know if you have tested any Contempo Frost OMC Japan plates? These are made from frost porcelain and bright matte colors (mine is gold) on the rims or exterior. I absolutely love these and been collecting them. Also I’m looking for more lead free options if you can share.
Hi I know this post was posted long time ago but maybe if you check regularly will see my comments.
I have been looking answers all over the Internet and not much information about “contempo frost” sets and any dishes. if you find out please email me freely, there is none of information about this company when and how and why it was created and also about lead information.
If you can send me a picture that’s a good start – here’s details on how the testing on this website works:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Here’s a little more background on the collaborative nature of this work too:
https://tamararubin.com/2021/04/what-kind-of-business-is-lead-safe-mama-llc/
Tamara
Hello Tamara! Can you please tell me if you’ve done any research on temptations? The line includes all sorts or items but I have a few mugs and some of the bakeware. Do you know if that line has lead or any other nasty stuff? I don’t want to use them if they’re going to harm my family. Tha k you for all that you do!
Hi Jackie,
Can you get me a link for the dishes you are referring to?
Here’s how to participate in the testing I do: https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Thanks for commenting.
Tamara
Any idea if white dishes by Mainstays and also by Gibson Home are lead free?
Thank you for everything you do, your work is appreciated!
Hi Macy –
Sorry I don’t have any examples of those up on the site right now.
Tamara
I’ve been looking for info on the Stonehenge Wild Oats Midwinter line and cannot find anything. Do you happen to know anything about it? Thank you.
I’d love to know about this line as well!
Me too
Me too! Stonehenge midwinter “creation” made in england 1970’s
I was wondering with bowls like vintage Pyrex where the color is on the outside, are you still finding high lead levels on the inside? The same situation with glass measuring cups with red on the outside. I know its not ideal, but should we still be concerned with those kind of situations where the food is not coming into direct contact with the lead coloring. Thank you very much.
Hi Tamara. Have you ever tested vintage “Glasbake by Sunbeam” plain white mixing bowls ? No decorations, made in USA. I have a small one apparently from the 1950s (?) with a spout on one side. I also have 2 large ones with handles.
Thank you in advance.
P.S. Loved your movie!!!
Hi Tamara, I had been searching the internet for days what dish I should buy for my 2 year old baby, and I found your blog. I have been reading it since yesterday. Finally I was able to decide what to buy thanks to you. Thank you so much I appreciate what you do!
Thank you, Kim. Thanks for commenting too!
T
Have you tested any food network dishes? I have the ripple pattern and many of the white serveware bowls and platters. They are made in China But do not have the proposition 65 stamp on them. I live in Colorado so it may not be required. Would you consider testing them if you have not or do you have someone in Denver or Colorado Springs which could? I do know that the dishes may be damaged and that is perfectly acceptable.
Hi Sally! I’ll be in Denver in a little over a week! 😉
Will also respond more shortly – hands full with kids!
What is the lead content (or lack thereof) of the following: vintage Iroquois China, New Yorker pattern (a kind of tan ware with reddish design around the rim); vintage Syracuse China Millbrook pattern; Depression glass bubble pattern; Leighware Deco Tulips pattern (sometimes called “Paris”); Buffalo China tan ware pattern that is plain with 3-color thin lines around edge; Cafe Ware, plain white, from China.
Thank you!
When you tested the new Corelle, like the set you own, are the mugs safe too? I don’t see the mug from the set you mention you have in the list of mugs tested. I got a set of new white Corelle, but the mugs are a thicker material than the plates/bowls. So it made me wonder if the entire set is ok or only the plates/bowls. Thanks!
Wondering if all Princess House dishes and glasses are safe or only the white ones. They are still very much an active company and I was interested in purchasing some.
https://www.princesshouse.com/products/category/Dinnerware?lid=0
Thank you
Have you every tested from a company called Tuxton Home specifically their Alaska Porcelain white. They claim that their dishes are Lead, cadium free on Amazon and on their website. Here is amszon link
https://www.amazon.com/Tuxton-Home-Alaska-Porcelain-Dinner/dp/B00P0MM7FO
https://tuxtonhome.com/collections/dinner-sets-place-settings/products/alaska-dinnerware
Hi Angela,
I don’t believe I have tested those.
Tamara
How about IKEA dishes please? Their basic white tempered glass dishes Oftast
https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/search/products/?q=oftast&f-subcategories=18860
and white dinnerware set
https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/p/flitighet-18-piece-dinnerware-set-white-50333921/ or similar. Do they contain lead? Thanks!
I would love to know this too!
I’m interested in these as well!
Please share if anyone has done research on these. Thank you!
Hi Tamara. Thank you for all what you do! I would like to know if Royal Doulton Pacific Dots dinnerware lead and cadmium free?
Aside from Fiesta ware, which I detest, have you found anything, preferably porcelain or China, with rich colors or patterns that does not contain lead/BPA/cadmium etc? Are we basically doomed to solid white to avoid these nasties? Yes I just bought a set of Bella Faenza but I would really rather be eating off a beautiful Wedgwood or something less….white. And clear glass anchor hocking is even worse.
How about mikasa parchment porcelain dinnerware ?
I don’t believe I have tested that – here’s a post about how to send me a dish for tesing:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Tamara
I am planning on sending a few things to be tested. However, I can’t afford to send in more than 3, even though I have more. Therefore, I’d like to know before I send if you have already tested these:
– clear-glass Candlewick
– Depression glass bubble pattern (very slight blueish tint)
-IKEA mug, same serial # on back as one you HAVE tested and shown on your site, but the pattern is different: pale grayish/blueish small modern tulips on cream-ish background
-green glass drinking glasses from Italy, with embossed cow in an oval circle on one side of the glass
Thank you!
Hi Tarmara,
The information your provided here is priceless. Thank you!
By the way, I emailed Villeroy & Boch to inquire about the lead and cadmium. This was the reply I received:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
From: R EService
Thank you for your inquiry . Yes you are correct all the glazes that are used on the various pattern are lead free glazes. The pattern that have color accents to them due use Cadmium. The levels of Cadmium are well below the limits of the requirements as set forth by the USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and California Prop 65.
Al of Villeroy & Boch solid white patterns are cadmium free as well as use lead free glazes.
Sincerely,
Villeroy & Boch Customer Care
Good morning… I have sent four questions to you without ever getting a response. Are you still in business or working at all? If you are, and i know you are probably very busy, will you please respond at least? I was wondering if the Mainstays Walmart Brand clear glass salad/serving bowl was lead free. Thanks to your post, I got rid of all my old Pyrex dishes and just went and bought a whole new set at Khol’s… now I see there is a hint of blue in the rims… my wife thinks I am crazy, and I just donated all of our old china and dishes…lol. I hope I did the right thing. Makes, Vallory and Bach…we had some pretty nice stuff, but don’t want to take chances. Now, my in laws just bought me a clear big salad bowl from Walmart and I was wondering if you knew if this was safe. Thanks again and wishing you the best from Idaho.
Hi Joshua, with over 1,000,000 unique readers on the site I cannot always answer every question – sorry about that!
Tamara
Oh, I get it… didn’t know you had such the following…we are new to you and have just signed on in the last week. I guess my wife, myself and the in-laws are late to the party, but better late than never. Thanks for letting us know you are still working this! Be well.
Hi Tamara do you know if Versace rosenthal has lead and cadmium abd if so the levels.
Greatly appreciate your time and effort to help educate dangers of heavy metals its truly heart earming.
Thank you
Can you please recommend any lead free rainbow glasses
Do you know if Global knives and Baccarat knives contsin lead or other toxic heavy metals
Hi, could you let me know if you have tested Petit Point, Royal Albert China, England. I received this for my wedding in 1972. Thank you for all you do. Doreen
I too would really appreciate knowing if you’ve tested Petit Point, Royal Albert China, England.
Thank you so much!
Have you tested the pottery barn mason stoneware? I just purchased a complete set a year ago thinking it was safe.
Hi, I stumbled onto your site research if dishes that my mother gave me contained lead. These were brought over by my father who was stationed in Japan in the 1950s. I also found that this particular set is being sold on Ebay and Etsy but the dozens. This is Fukagawa Arita hand painted made in Japan patter no. 917. They are white dishes with pewter (I think) lined cup handles with a wheat design which is also pewter around the rim of the cups and dishes. I can send you a picture. I’m about ready to throw them away, but I wanted to see what you thought.
Hello, I have the same situation! My dad was stationed in Japan in the 60s and has given me Fukagawa Arita hand painted entire set of dishes. Mine is no. 704, like this one: https://www.etsy.com/listing/626942864/vintage-fukagawa-arita-black-rose-hand?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=704+fukagawa+china&ref=sr_gallery-1-23&sts=1
What did you find out about the lead content of these? It tested negative by the strips, but I am thinking of getting someone with an XRF to our house…
Have there been any lawsuits for lead/chemical issues? I got this for xmas and 1st rime baking for 25 minutes and the food tastes like arsenic poisoning! Have used it for left overs and salads and so disapointed I do not feel I should be out my meal as well as replacement dinner and dish… I have raved about how amazing this set is and wondering if I should go see a Dr. I tried one bight before serving the family and my sinuses are inflamed and all I can taste is chemical burning in my mouth and have a horrible headace. After that night my husband was sent to the ER and spent the night with an allergic reaction was admitted to the hospital. Pioneer woman casserole dish from walmart.
Hi Tamara,
Do you know if vintage ( approx 1921) Minton Pink or Green Cockatrice plates have any lead or any other metals?
Thank you,
Anna
Does noritaki fairmont platinum trim have unacceptable lead levels? This was obtained In The late 70s
Thanks Tamara!
I have a collection of Hearthside stoneware. The most is Garden Festival pattern. We use it every day and microwave the plates! I didn’t even think about lead. Can you tell me if this has lead in it? I’m going to stop using it immediately as I think it may since it has painted flowers on it.
Thank you.
Do Rae Dunn mugs and plates have lead in them?
Many do – please use the search bar to look up “Rae Dunn” on the blog – or click the “Rae Dunn” button on this link:
https://tamararubin.com/instagram/
Tamara
I am looking at Corelle Enhancements, which is pure white vitrelle but has an undulating/wavy sculptural quality to it. I hope that one is lead free.
Thank you for all of your research and sharing of the information. Unfortunately, I came across your site after making a large purchase of dinnerware only to find out it had a very high lead content and unable to return. In my efforts to look for lead free replacements, I came across H F Coors a dinnerware manufacture since 1925 in USA (and manufactured in USA) and impressive claims on their site of lead and cadmium free. Wondering if you have heard of them and if you have had the opportunity to test any of their products?
Hello Tamara I have some Laura Ashley cereal bowls not sure if they were made in the 80s but wanted to know if these were considered toxic to eat from. The bowls are Sofia bowls.
Thank you
Hi Tamar,
Have you had a chance to test Ian Kirkham porcelain?
Thank you,
Alex
Hello Tamara. Have you ever tested or heard of Fable Home? Do you know if their ceramics contain lead or other heavy metals and toxins?
I am not familiar with that brand.
Here’s how to send something in to me for testing: https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
I was really curious about this too, and ended up reaching out to Fable. They said that they are NOT lead and cadmium free (even though their website says this), they are just very low (Prop65 compliant). They said they test regularly and have always passed, but they are technically not zero. I suspect this may fall into the lead-safe category though potentially.
I just bought some Mora dishes. They say lead free, but do you know if they actually are?
Thanks,
Jessica
Usually the dishes marked Lead-free are not actually Lead-free, they are just “non-leaching for Lead at the time of manufacture.” Here’s an example of that:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/05/one-of-my-most-disappointing-finds-recently-2019-forlife-q-tea-cup-with-handle-purple-lead-free-mug-541-ppm-lead/
Here’s why that is a problem:
https://tamararubin.com/topics/does-vintage-and-new-functional-pottery-and-dishware-have-unsafe-levels-of-lead/
Here’s how to send a dish in for testing if you want to know for sure:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Tamara
Hi Tamara how about the corelle divided dish in plain white ? Are those lead , cadmium,arsenic & mercury free as well ?
Thank you
They are! I love those!
T
The divided dish is the plate that is divided by three portions right ? sorry to ask again just making sure i bought the right one 🙂 Thank you for the swift reply i really appreciate it
Yes – that’s correct!
T
Hi Tamara,
I see you mentioned in 1 comment above that you are not familiar with the line Fable dinnerware. While it is designed in Vancouver Canada, It is manufactured in Portugal and apparently 3rd part tested for lead, cadmium and any other heavy metals. I believe the partner they work with in Portugal is very well known for it’s safe manufacturing practices. the manufacturer I believe is Matceramica Portugal. Have you tested any of their products?
Thank you.
I have never tested anything from Portugal that was lead free.
T
IKEA has lead & cadmium free glasses and dinnerware
Thank you for commenting Janet!
Much of the more recent Ikea ceramic ware has tested positive for Lead unfortunately, so I no longer recommend Ikea ceramics.
– Tamara
Have you tested any Le Creuset dinnerware? I have the white and Caribbean dishes and mugs and I just cannot find info anywhere. I also have Martha Stewart bakeware. Wondering if I need to get rid of all of them! Wish I had known this before I spent a fortune! URG!!! Thank you so much!!!!!
Hi Tamara – do you know if Le Creuset dinnerware and mugs are lead free? I have white and Caribbean I can’t find info anywhere on them!
Hi Tiff-
This is Katie, Tamara’s assistant.
Tamara does not have test results for Le Creuset dinnerware or mugs on her website yet. Here is her overview post on Le Creuset if you are interested. https://tamararubin.com/2022/04/le-creuset-overview/
Also, this posts discusses concerns of Lead and other heavy metals in dishware: https://tamararubin.com/topics/does-vintage-and-new-functional-pottery-and-dishware-have-unsafe-levels-of-lead/
If you are interested in getting some of your items tested, here is a link with more info: https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Or… if you just want to go with something you KNOW is Lead-free, here is Tamara’s shop with tons of recommendations 🙂 https://shopleadsafemama.com/
Hello! I’m in Canada, and all the new Corelle I’m seeing online says it’s made with 80% recycled glass. I’m not sure if this is the same Corelle as what you’ve tested and recommended, but the recycled glass raised my suspicions. Thanks for any insights! 🙂
https://www.corelle.com/product/winter-frost-white-78-piece-dinnerware-set-service-12
Is the Corelle ink stamp on the back of all the plates and bowls lead free? I’m worried now that any paint adhering to dishware is going to have something bad in it. Even if it’s on the bottom, they’re always getting stacked…
Hi there! Are the white Hf coors dishes still lead and cadmium free? Thanks in advance!!!
Hello, I read through this post trying to find lead free plates. I bought all new fiestaware this last year, and saw your new article on them. I was so bummed. So now I’m again looking for plates. I saw o. Your website many plates you had tested but did not see Avesta from target on there, have you done a test on them? Off the top of your head are there any lead free plates that are as colorful as the fiestaware? I understand that with color the lead and cadmium possibilities rise, but here’s to wishful thinking. Thank you so much.
Hi Tanya! I just published this post a few minutes ago (with five Lead-free dish options), perhaps you will find it helpful:
https://tamararubin.com/2022/10/some-new-current-leadsafemama-approved-lead-free-dish-choices-for-the-fall-winter-2022-season/
And yes – you are correct – if you want brightly colored ceramics that is normally accompanied by some heavy metal contamination in the glaze.
To reiterate my statements in the new Fiesta Tableware overview post (link to that here): the Lead in those dishes is likely safe by all standards / non-leaching. The concern for Lead in those dishes is more a political concern (because the accompanying greenwashing statements by the manufacturer). I have other concerns with the Fiesta brand tho – more focused on Cadmium and some of the other metals found.
Tamara
Do colored glass dishes tend to have lead? Have you ever tested Luminarc Arty French Glass Dinnerware?
Use the search bar on the site (at the top of any page) to look for the various colors of glass for examples… like “red glass” “blue glass” “amber glass” “green glass” etc.
I have a set of porcelain dishes from food network, plain white purchased in 2018 in the US. I don’t have the means to have them tested, but what are the chances these are lead free?
Just heard about the work you are doing and you are amazing.
I have these dishes Studio Nova primary gallery Hi-Fi19186 Japan. I was wondering if they contain lead.
Also I have the Corelle dishes Provincial Blue for years probably in the late 90’s. They are in great condition and I see no wear in the pattern. I might have a chip on the edge on one dish but that’s it.
Tamara thank you for all you do! Your helping the world to be a better place for sure bringing all this awareness.
How do you feel about mora ceramics. They pride themselves on being lead-free.
Kerri
Damnit! I just got all new dishes from fiesta ware. All white. Granted, I have no idea of the plates lead or metal content that I replaced. They are old. But I am super disappointed, I trusted their website information. Looks like I’ll have to donate them or trash them!
I have them too, the white ones. She says they are lead safe but not lead free and she has the test results for all the different colors of Fiestaware . Pretty low levels of lead. I can’t remember what the white tested at. The cups where what was higher but I didn’t get the cups. I plan on using mine until they start scratching and wearing. I also have white new Corelle I mix and use too so I’m not just using the Fiestaware every day which is also Tamara’s recommendation. I think eventually I will just go with the white Corelle she has tested. You may be able to take your Fiestaware dishes back. It’s worth a try to see. Hope this helps.
Hey Tamara, hoping you can help. I live in NZ and found these on amazon. It’s the Corelle Winter Frost White. I know it’s not the ones you mention but these are completely white. Would these be a good lead free/low lead option?
Thanks so much
I have a set of precious moments dinnerware dishes with a beautiful design ..are they lead free? also are A&W mugs lead free ? are vintage clear glass baking pans and other items clear glass lead free
Do you know if there is lead in an RRP Co Large Pasta Bowl Cobalt Blue Spongeware? It was my mother’s and was gifted to her sometime after 2003. I found they are out of business, but can find no information on the products safety.
I truly appreciate this! I can eat comfortably now!
May I email you pictures of some dishes that I have. I don’t know the pattern name to look them up on your site. Please email me your email so I can send the pictures in.
Thank you!!
Have you tested MIKASA circa early 1980s GARDEN CLUB CA-508 GARDEN TREASURES PATTERN dishes for lead and other metals?
Hi there!
I am wanting to purchase dishware from Bormioli Rocco, but you only have 2 specific recommendation links in another one of your posts for this brand. Are all the white dishes considered safe from this brand?
I tried posting this question in your dish post, but for some reason it keeps getting deleted. : )
Thanks so much!
Have you ever tested ceramics from Mackenzie Childs? Specifically their Taylor pattern which includes a multitude of specific “pattern” but Taylor is their fluted ceramic plates. Their website says they are safe by California prop 65 standards but… you know how that goes. I tried searching and couldn’t find anything you had on them.
As a treat for my grandchildren I serve pudding or ice cream in the Anchor Hocking Bubble Footed Green Pedestal Dessert Dishes (just like I got to do when I was a kid). The dish part is a pretty green color and the bubble footed pedestal part is clear glass.
I have lots of old depression glass (pink, green, deep blue and yellow) some Vaseline pedestal cake plates, etc. that are all just for show in display cases but I thought these dessert dishes would be safe. Any idea? Thanks. I’m new to your site and have been reading a lot. Appreciate your service.
So bummed to just be finding out that my vintage Fiestaware is likely unsafe… I inherited my vintage dishes from my grandmother in 2003 (and they were already old by then), and I’ve honestly eaten on them, and my babies have eaten off them daily every single day! I plan to display them, and I am ordering the glass ones you recommend on your Amazon storefront as a quick and cheap replacement. Btw my kids have had elevated lead test results. Not crazy high but 3.7. Thank you for your helpful information as we parents always strive to do the best we can!
Do you have any recommendations for a lipped dinner plate? My husband wants new dishes with this requirement. Easily overwhelmed with all the information!
We have a set of Corelle all white white dishes. They are 8 years old and have spots of lead in them. We are using (redacted) to check everything. I would caution on the use of Corelle dishes.
My understanding is that the test kit company you mentioned is under investigation by the FDA for manufacturing an unsafe product (not that test kit, but another product they manufacture). I don’t know how reliable the testing product is – and I expect it is not reliable for testing consumer goods for Lead (check out the videos on my YouTube channel in which I share results using different types of Lead test kits). There’s also an issue with different types of black lights causing false positives as well.
I have been testing the Corelle dishes since 2009 and the plain white ones have almost always tested Lead-Free using XRF technology (with rare exceptions – when it may have been environmental contamination causing an erroneous positive reading). I have tested hundreds of examples – and several different XRF instruments have all confirmed the same results.
That said – I generally do not like the brand Corelle – as they have historically used a lot of lead in their decorated dishware (and cadmium in their newer dishware) and I don’t think we should be supporting the company at all. People should check out Libbey and Duralex and Ikea for Lead-free, plain, clear glass dishes.
T
I recently bought some pretty serving bowls and casserole dishes from Marshall’s. Would you know if these have lead? Appreciate any insight!
Bowls
Destinos SA (made in Portugal)
Fusion Design by Fapor (made in Portugal)
P Home (made in Portugal)
Casserole dishes
Deltis (made in Portugal)
Primagera (made in Portugal)
Mixcer (made in Portugal)
Hi Tamara,
Other have noted in the comments this issue re the Corelle winter frost sets in other countries. In Australia, it says the composition is up to 80% recycled glass- should this be a concern?
https://instantbrands.com.au/products/corelle-classic-12-piece-set-winter-frost-white-1141876
Also, do you recommend all of the Bormioli Rocco dinnerware pieces or just some?
Thanks!
First I want to say thank you. This page has so much information and I’m very glad I found it. I recently picked up my dream dishes and have been searching everywhere to find out if they’re safe to use and I’m finding nothing. They’re Canonsburg brown glaze dishes with greenish drip, no year on any piece. I didn’t see them mentioned anywhere on your site. Did I miss it? My daughter also has vintage brown drip Pfaltzgraff dishes I’m concerned about. I’m so disappointed that I may not be able to use these dishes. I suppose it’s safest to rehome them to someone for decoration only?
Send me a photo to TamaraRubin@mac.com