WSLH Toxicology: Lead, Pottery

The pottery lead leachate test is performed on pottery used for food preparation, serving, and storage. The test does not measure how much lead is in the dish, but rather how much lead can leach into food when the dish is used. This is the only test we offer where the public can directly submit items for testing to the lab. The testing process generally does not damage the tested item, but the item will not be returned unless the submitter makes return arrangements. Please contact program staff at 608-224-6252 or toxpt@mail.slh.wisc.edu for additional information.

Testing Procedure

A weak acid solution is placed in contact with the ceramic ware for 24 hours and the solution is analyzed for lead using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Links

• Toxic Elements in Food and Foodware - Import and Domestic
• Lead in Tableware