FDA Warns of Dangerous Lead Levels in Imported Cookware

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about certain imported cookware that may be leaching hazardous levels of lead into food. According to the advisory, cookware made from aluminum, brass, or specific aluminum alloys—such as “Hindalium” and “Indalium,” which are not used in U.S. manufacturing—has been found to release “significant levels” of lead during normal use.

Three brands were named in the alert: Tiger White, Silver Horse, and JK Vallabhdas. The FDA urges consumers to stop using cookware from these brands, which may still be available in some stores as the agency works to notify distributors.

The contamination may be linked to poor quality control in aluminum recycling practices in certain countries. Research cited by The Hill suggests that recycled metal used in cookware production can include harmful materials such as old car engine parts, radiators, or electronic waste—some of which may contain lead. In some instances, lead is intentionally added to make the metal easier to work with.

Health experts stress that no level of lead exposure is considered safe, especially for young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those who may become pregnant.

Consumers are advised to check the origin of their cookware and avoid products that may contain recycled or imported metals from unregulated sources.