For those new to this 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 sons were acutely Lead-poisoned in 2005). Since 2009, Tamara has been using XRF technology (a scientific method used by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) to test consumer goods for toxicants (specifically heavy metals — including Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, Antimony, and Arsenic). Tamara’s work was featured in Consumer Reports Magazine in February 2023 (March 2023 print edition).
Introduction
For each article I write, there are category keyword tabs at the top of the page. Each of those words is a link to the category, and you can get to that category overview (to see all related articles in that category) anytime, by clicking on any of those words. I am working on writing summary pieces for each category (like this one), so our readers will be able to see all the pieces we have written for some of the more popular categories on the site, easily (at a glance). This is my first attempt at this, so feedback is welcome. Please let me know if these summary articles are helpful. Thank you!
And without further ado… my overview discussing silverware (each numbered line below is a link to an article with photos and more information, including — in most posts — XRF test results for the item discussed):
- This is the link to the full “Silverware” category on LeadSafeMama.com
- Vintage Winthrop silver plate Gerber Baby spoon: Lead-free
- Antique sterling silver Wendell Manufacturing Co. baby spoon: 1,677 ppm Lead
- Vintage Rolex Bucherer of Switzerland spoon: Lead-Free
- Ikea solid stainless steel knife: Lead-free
- 2014 Ikea stainless steel spoon: Lead-free
- 2016 stainless steel restaurant supply chopsticks: Lead-free
- 2003 Calderoni Italian stainless steel fork: Lead-free
- 2014 Ikea stainless steel fork: Lead-free
- Liberty Tabletop SMI (Sherril MFG, Inc.) stainless steel spoon: Lead-free
- 1950s vintage Blossom Time sterling silverware: Lead-free
- Stainless flatware for children (several examples)
- Stainless steel knife by Wallace: Lead-free
- Plastic “Smart Planet” spork for children: Lead-free
- Vintage enamel decorated spoon: 388,800 ppm Lead
- Video — Tamara discussing baby spoons
- Vintage Epic stainless spoon with faux wood composite handle: 2,170 ppm Lead
- More links to be added to this list shortly!
As always, thank you for reading.
Thank you for being here, and thank you for sharing this advocacy work!
Tamara Rubin
#LeadSafeMama
Hi, I’m looking into purchasing some flatware. I’ve had my eye on WMF Burgand Stainless Wood Flatwear. Do you know if these are safe? I did not see them on the list. Thank you!
I’m looking for a complete flatware set. So far, I’m not able to find anything that states lead free. Nothing on Amazon. Hope to find something.
HI Tamara! What about kitchen knives? I know the blade should be stainless, but any concerns about what the handles are made of? Thank you again!
Hello, just found your site, very helpful! I have already purchased many items from your amazon shop. My question is: I have been using vintage stainless steel silverware, stamped stainless steel Japan. Are these also lead free?
Thank you
Ditto on this. I have alot of vintage flatware that is stamped “stainless” or “stainless steel”. I’d love to see more posts about stainless steel cutlery and if any generalizations/trends have been observed
^^^^
Thanks so much for this Tamara!
I’m hoping to buy a very simple set of stainless steel (lead free) forks, knives, & spoons (for adults).
Any brand or product recommendations?
Thanks again!
Hi Tamara,
I have an issue with metallic taste in my mouth when using silverware. I have been using plastic and washing them (environment conscious). Well now I’m paranoid about what’s in that. Is using only white or clear safe? Any suggestions? As far as I can tell this taste started with one of my medications. So I’m stuck with it. Thank you,
Kathy
These summary posts are very helpful. Thank you!
I am so appreciative of your website! Question- Any recommendations on a boxed set of silverware/eating utensils? I’ve searched your website for guidance but am not able to find anything.
Thank you!
Hello! I am wondering if any recommendations for a full set? Kitchen knives as well. I have an older set from pottery barn and wustof that I’m guessing may not be the best. Thx!!
Hi Tamara,
Thank you for all the work that you do! Have you ever tested Wusthof knives? (These are generally high end knives manufactured in Germany.) The branding on the knife is usually a red symbol on the handle. The red paint from the symbol wears off over time, so I know it is painted…. They have changed the brand logo somewhat over time, but still sell the ones I am mentioning… Thank you!
just posted a comment on this and forgot to check box–I would like to be notified of follow up comments by email. Thanks!