The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to check their kitchens for certain brands of imported cookware that may leach "significant levels" of lead into food.
FDA testing revealed that specific types of imported cookware such as Hindalium/Hindolium or Indalium/Indolium made from aluminum, brass, and aluminum alloys are likely to leach significant levels of lead when used for cooking or food storage.
Consumption of lead is not safe. Officials are particularly concerned about young children, women of childbearing age, and people who are breastfeeding as they may face higher health risks from lead exposure.
"Lead is toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status, and there is no known safe level of exposure to lead," according to the FDA. Even low levels of exposure can cause serious health problems, especially for fetuses and children.
The agency found several products concerning lead levels. These include items from Saraswati Strips Pvt. Ltd (brand name Tiger White), Goyal Group Inc. (brand name Silver Horse), and Grain Market LLC. (brand name JK Vallabhdas).
Officials are in the process of notifying the distributors, but the products may still be for sale at retailers.
The FDA recommends that consumers immediately check their homes for products from the listed brands and discard affected cookware. Those with concerns about potential lead exposure should contact their health care provider.
Retailers and distributors are responsible for ensuring that any cookware sold complies with FDA regulations. Many methods for testing leachable lead are available, and retailers and distributors are encouraged to consult with the FDA regarding product safety.
The FDA continues to actively work to remove these products from retailers. Additional products may be added throughout the investigation.
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