It is noted that lead poisoning can adversely affect children from around the globe. Most children affected with high BLLs or Blood Lead Levels are the ones aged 1 to 5 years old. It is believed that exposure to lead elements mostly contributes from glazes found on earthenware, ceramics, porcelain and bone china containing lead.

People, especially children, are now more vulnerable to the neurotoxin effects of lead. A child exposed to lead during his earlier years is susceptible to a weak nervous system, decreased intelligence and behavioral changes. Children who are fond of thumb sucking have a greater risk of lead exposure.

A special unit called PEHSU or Mount Sinai Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit joined forces with the LPPP or New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Lead Prevention Program to investigate some cases of lead poisoning in children. There was a report identifying a type of ceramic dinnerware from France providing a high source of lead exposure, especially on children. Children have become unsuspecting targets of such cases because of the high duration of time they spend at home and their dietary habits.

Due to this alarming discovery, ceramic plates from France were submitted for further evaluation and testing, along with the help of the FDA or Food and Drug Administration. Even if these plates seem to be in excellent condition, showing no apparent signs of wear or cracks, the plates were tested in acetic acid solution and high temperatures. After several hours, they measured the amount of lead being released via a so-called “flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.” It revealed a 29.6 g/ml of lead being released. This exceeds the compliance guidelines of the FDA by 3 g/ml.

Because of this, the brand of ceramic dinnerware from France is no longer available in the US market. However, this brand can still be seen on flea markets, discount stores and even online. Although there are still tests being done on the other plates of this manufacturer, it is best to steer clear of it until it is proven safe to use.

This news opened doors on the reality that even the simplest things can pose harm on our children. Years before, lead poisoning is focused on lead-based paints alone. At current, the focus should also be on the lead glazes you may find in homemade ceramics, specifically in ceramic dinnerware.

Lead is capable of leaching out of your ceramic ware when its lead glazes are fired improperly. Another cause of lead leaching on ceramic dinnerware is if it has broken down due to daily usage or wearing, specifically after repeated usage inside a dishwasher or microwave. Lastly, it can leach out if there are cracks and chips in your ceramic ware.

Lead can contaminate drinks and food, and expose a person to toxic levels. It is important that before you buy ceramic dinnerware, check about the manufacturer. It is also advisable to buy the branded ones whose names have been trusted in the industry for a long time.