FDA Warns About Toxic Cookware: What You Need to Know
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings regarding certain imported nonstick cookware that may be leaching dangerous levels of lead into food. This article summarizes the FDA's warnings, affected products, and safer alternatives.
FDA Issues Warning on Imported Nonstick Cookware
On August 13, 2025, the FDA initially warned about a list of imported nonstick cookware potentially leaching "significant levels" of lead. This warning was updated on September 12, 2025, adding more products to the list. The FDA urges consumers and retailers to avoid using or selling the affected cookware and recommends discarding any compromised items.
The FDA's testing of cookware made from aluminum, aluminum alloys (Hindalium and Hindolium), and brass revealed that these materials could leach lead into food during cooking. Even small amounts of lead are considered toxic and can cause health problems, especially in infants and fetuses.
Identifying Affected Cookware
The FDA has identified the following products that may leach lead. Check your cookware labels carefully to see if they match these affected items:
- Kadai/Karahi Tiger White: Label - RTM NO: 2608606 AN ISO 9001:2015 Certified Co. SARASWATI STRIPS PVT. LTD. INDIA. Previously found at Mannan Supermarket in Jamaica, NY.
- Silver Horse: Label - (7 6554273084 5 Aluminium Mathar Kadai 26) & (7 6554272863 7 Aluminium Milk Pan 4). Previously found at Patel Brothers in Schaumburg, IL.
- JK Vallabhdas: Label - (Aluminium Kadai India Bazaar #3 2000000772). Previously found at Indiaco in Hoffman Estates, IL.
This is not an exhaustive list, and the FDA will continue to update it with new information. If you believe you have an affected product, the FDA recommends contacting your healthcare provider.
What to Do If You Have Impacted Cookware
If you suspect you have cookware from the list or are concerned about lead exposure, the FDA advises contacting your healthcare provider. Do not attempt to repair or refurbish the cookware. Retailers should use the FDA’s lead leach testing protocol.
- Discard the cookware immediately.
- Consult your healthcare provider if concerned about exposure.
Safe Alternatives to Toxic Nonstick Cookware
Several brands offer nonstick cookware made of nontoxic materials and free of lead, cadmium, PFAS ("forever chemicals"), PTFE, and PFOA. Here are some recommendations:
- Caraway 10.5-inch Fry Pan: Made of nontoxic chemicals with a ceramic coating. Compatible with all cooktops.
- Our Place Perfect Pot: A 5.5-quart Dutch oven ideal for soups and pasta. Oven and broiler safe.
- GreenPan Rio 3-Piece Nonstick Frying Pan Set: Stainless steel with a ceramic scratch-resistant, nonstick coating. Dishwasher safe.
Risks of Lead Exposure
The FDA prohibits the use of lead in food-related products, including cookware. Lead is toxic and can be ingested when it leaches into food. Even low levels of exposure can lead to serious health issues like fatigue, headache, stomach pain, vomiting, and neurological changes. Exposure is especially dangerous for developing fetuses and children, potentially causing learning difficulties, low IQ, and behavioral changes.
Questions for the FDA related to this topic can be sent to premarkt@fda.hhs.gov.
