The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its warning to consumers about imported cookware that may leach dangerous levels of lead into food. In a latest advisory, the agency added nine more products to its list, bringing the total number of flagged cookware items to 19. Several of these products are manufactured in India, as per FDA testing records.
The FDA mentioned in its report that the cookware under security includes utensils made from aluminium, aluminium alloys like Indolium/Indalium, Hindalium/Hindolium and brass. Tests conducted by the agency and the state partners found that these materials can release a major amount of lead when used for cooking or food storage. The FDA has cautioned that young children, breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women face a higher risk from lead exposure.
Among the products listed, the following India-manufactured cookware items were included:
1. IKM Aluminium Saucepan-Manufactured by JSM Foods, New Delhi.
2. Kadai/Karahi-Tiger White (Pure Aluminium Utensils)-Manufactured by Saraswati Strips Pvt. Ltd, India.
3. IKM 4-Quart Pital Brass Pot (Brass Hammered Handi No.3)-Manufactured by JSM Foods, New Delhi.
4. Brass Tope-Manufactured by Kraftwares (India) Ltd, Mumbai.
5. Aluminium Kadai Size 5 (A-Cook brand)-Manufactured by Kraftwares (India) Ltd, Mumbai.
6. JK Vallabhdas Aluminium Kadai (India Bazaar#3)-Manufactured listed as JK Vallabhdas, India.
These items were sold across several US states, including New York, Illinois, Washington DC, Maryland, New Jersey and California. Several distributors have initiated recalls following FDA notifications, whereas in some cases, the agency underlined that it could not identify a responsible party to coordinate a recall.
The FDA has urged customers to immediately check their homes for any cookware featured in its list and dispose of these items rather than donate or refurbish them. The agency added that individuals concerned about lead exposure should contact their healthcare provider for advice.
What harm can lead cause?
Lead is a toxic metal with no safe level of exposure. The FDA highlighted that prolonged or repeated use of contaminated cookware can contribute to elevated lead levels in the blood. The affected person can show symptoms of stomach pain, fatigue, vomiting, nausea, headaches and neurological changes. Young children and infants face the greatest risk. It may also result in behavioural issues, delay in development and difficulties in learning.
Retailers and distributors are also advised to verify that the products they sell comply with FDA regulations.