Leaching of lead from ceramics

Summary The amount of lead leached from various glazed ceramic was determined by extraction with 5% acetic acid for one hour at 85°C. All commercial ceramic items, both domestic and imported, were below the FDA standard of 7 mg/liter lead in the extractant. On the other hand, almost 60% of the domestic homemade ceramic items exceeded FDA standards. Comparison with previous studies show significant reduction in lead leaching from commercial ceramic containers. However, homemade ceramic items continue to pose a potential hazard of excessive lead release.