Migration limits for lead and cadmium for ceramic tableware - Relevant standards

Domestic Standards

China has clear limits on the migration of lead and cadmium in ceramic tableware. According to the mandatory national standard GB4806 (and previous related standards such as GB12651, GB8058), the migration limit of lead in ceramic products is stipulated. Specifically, the allowable limits for the migration of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) from flatware (such as plates, bowls, etc.) are calculated by area, with a requirement of ≤0.8 mg/dm² for lead and ≤0.07 mg/dm² for cadmium. The time and temperature for migration are also specified, and limits for the migration of lead and cadmium from cooking utensils are also included.

International Standards

The international standard ISO6486 also sets limits on the migration of lead in ceramic products, with a limit range of 0.5-2.0mg/L. It's important to note that the unit (mg/L) differs from domestic standards (mg/dm²), primarily due to differences in testing methods and conditions.

Other National Standards

European Union Standards: The EU has strict limits on ceramic products that come into contact with food. For example, under Council Directive 84/500/EEC and its subsequent amendments, different limits apply to ceramic products based on their intended use. For example, the maximum allowable migration limit for lead from non-food-holding articles or articles with a depth not exceeding 25mm is 0.8mg/dm²; for all food-holding articles, the maximum allowable migration limit for lead is 4.0mg/L (or may vary depending on specific conditions). Additionally, the EU has proposed stricter lead limits, aiming to further reduce the migration limit for lead in ceramic products intended for food contact.

US Standards: The US FDA/ORACPG7117 also sets limits on the migration of lead in ceramic products, with a limit range of 0.5-3.0mg/L.

Japanese Standards: Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare's Regulation No. 370 also specifies limits on the migration of lead in ceramic products, with a limit of 0.05-8.0mg/L.

Russian Standards: The Russian standard ГОСТП50186-9 sets a limit for the migration of lead in ceramic products at 1.7-5.0mg/dm².