What the FDA Found in Imported Cookware
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has expanded its warning about imported nonstick cookware that may leach lead into food. The advisory, updated on September 12, follows testing of aluminum-based products sold under brand names including Tiger White, Silver Horse, and JK Vallabhdas. These items were found to contain metal alloys such as Hindalium and brass, which are not commonly used in U.S. cookware due to their potential to release lead during cooking.
The initial alert was issued in August after testing cookware from Saraswati Strips Pvt. Ltd., an Indian manufacturer. Subsequent investigations added more products and distributors to the list, including items sold at Mannan Supermarket in New York and Patel Brothers in Illinois. The FDA emphasized that the list is not exhaustive and additional products may be identified as testing continues. Full details are available in the FDA’s official letter to retailers and distributors.
Lead exposure is considered unsafe at any level. The FDA noted that certain groups—including young children, pregnant individuals, and those who are breastfeeding—are especially vulnerable to its effects. Consumers are advised to check their cookware for matching product labels and discard any affected items without attempting to repair or reuse them.
Why Lead Exposure Matters
Lead is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body over time. When ingested, it may interfere with neurological development, especially in children. Symptoms of lead exposure include fatigue, stomach pain, and irritability. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious outcomes such as learning difficulties and lowered IQ.
Cooking with contaminated cookware increases the risk of ingesting lead particles. The FDA’s tests showed that food prepared in certain aluminum and brass-based pans absorbed measurable amounts of lead. These findings prompted the agency to issue a public health advisory and notify retailers and distributors.
The FDA collaborated with the Public Health Department of Seattle and King County, which had previously identified high blood lead levels in refugee populations linked to imported cookware. This partnership helped expand testing methods and identify additional products of concern. A full summary of the expanded warning is available via USA Today’s coverage.
How to Identify Affected Products
Consumers can identify potentially affected cookware by checking product labels and brand names. The FDA has listed specific items, including:
- Tiger White brand “Pure Aluminium Utensils”
- Silver Horse brand “Aluminium Mathar Kadai 26” and “Aluminium Milk Pan 4”
- JK Vallabhdas brand “Aluminium Kadai India Bazaar #3”
These products were tested at retail locations in New York, Illinois, and Texas. While the advisory focuses on these items, the FDA warns that similar cookware made from aluminum alloys or brass may also pose risks. Consumers are encouraged to avoid using any cookware that matches these descriptions or lacks clear labeling.
Retailers have been asked to remove affected products from shelves. The FDA has also issued letters to distributors, advising them not to sell cookware made from materials known to leach lead. Additional consumer guidance is available through NBC News’ public health report.
What Consumers Can Do
If a household item matches the FDA’s description, it should be discarded. The agency advises against refurbishing or attempting to clean the cookware for reuse. If there is concern about past exposure, individuals should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
Replacing cookware with products made from stainless steel, cast iron, or certified nonstick materials may reduce risk. These alternatives are widely available and generally considered safe when used according to manufacturer instructions.
Consumers can stay informed by checking the FDA’s website for updates. The agency continues to test additional products and may expand its advisory as new data becomes available. Awareness and early action can help reduce exposure and protect household health.
