Do Corelle Dishes Contain Lead?

Corelle dinnerware is one of the most popular brands of dishes because of its affordability, durability, and various designs. But, you might be wondering if these beautiful dishes are safe to eat on. Nobody wants to be ingesting harmful materials, such as lead or cadmium while eating off their lovely dishes. We have researched this topic and have the answers you're looking for.

Corelle dishes manufactured after 2005 are safe and comply with FDA regulations regarding lead in paint. Any dishes made before 1970, before any regulation was made on how much lead could be used in tableware, may contain traces of lead or cadmium. 

Don't get rid of all your Corelle dishware just yet. These plates can still be used for decorative purposes. If your pre-2005  Corelle dishes show any deterioration, signs of worn glaze, or chipped paint, you should avoid eating from these plates. Keep reading to find out more information about lead in dinnerware. We will also offer suggestions on lead-free dinnerware available.

Why Lead Or Cadmium Exists in Dinnerware

It's tricky to know which type of dinnerware contains lead and why it exists in the first place. Lead and cadmium can be hidden in the glaze of decorative, brightly colored dishes. Lead is used to make colored glazes shiny and bright. It also seals the glaze and decor on a plate and increases durability. Cadmium is a chemical element that adds bright color to dishes, especially in orange and yellow.

In 1970, the FDA started regulating and limiting how much lead could be used in paint glazes that may come in contact with food. Regulations have been tightened twice since then, as they were still finding cases of lead being ingested due to the amount of lead or cadmium in the paint glaze.

Current regulations are very strict and make it much safer to eat from brightly colored, decorative dishes. When looking for dishware used to serve food, avoid the following dinnerware which is considered "high-risk" for containing lead: antique dishes made before 1970, decorated dishes with the decor on top of the glaze instead of underneath, or hand-crafted tableware, unless you know it was made for sure with a lead-free glaze.

Antique dishes like the ones above may contain high levels of lead or cadmium.

If a plate leaches more lead than allowed by the FDA, you should see warning labels such as: not for food use, decorative use only, or glaze contains lead, somewhere on the dinnerware.

Are My Corelle Dishes Lead-Safe?

As mentioned earlier, dishes manufactured before 1970 had no regulations on the glaze used. However, strict regulations implemented in the mid-2000s ensure the Corelle dinnerware made since is completely lead-safe. Corelle makes its products and glazes using clay-based materials and glazed used throughout the industry.

If any decorations are present, they are made using low-lead enamels. These are fired at temperatures exceeding 1000°F, binding any heavy metals chemically and physically, minimizing their release. According to Corelle, an internationally certified third-party lab tests all dinnerware for a heavy presence of lead or other metals.

How Do You Know if There is Lead in Your Dishes?

Stick to pure white Corelle dinner sets to know for sure they don't contain lead. If you have highly decorative older pieces of Corelle dinnerware, turn those plates into decor or display them in your china cabinet.

To know for certain if your Corelle dinnerware contains lead, use a lead test kit for dinnerware. While it won't give specific amounts, it will detect the presence of lead or cadmium.

Find this lead test kit on Amazon.

How Would Lead From My Dishes Get Into My Food?

When manufacturers properly bake ceramic, the lead should not be able to leach out. However, when the dishes are not baked properly, the lead can seep out. Additionally, glazes used before FDA regulations contained higher amounts of lead. Ingesting lead over time can be a hazard to your health, especially for children and pregnant women.

So how does the lead leach out of the glaze? Serving food on a hot plate can extract the chemicals right into your food, not a pleasant thought. Next, microwaving food on plates containing lead can increase the chances of the lead escaping into your food.

Last, storing food in these dishes can also raise the chances of lead seeping in. The longer the food is in contact with the dish containing the lead, the higher the chances of lead or cadmium trickling into your leftovers.

What Dinnerware is Lead and Cadmium-Free?

Many brands of lead and cadmium-free dishes are available on the market today. You can have total peace of mind knowing you won't be ingesting lead while enjoying your favorite meal. Remember, dishes that are plain white with little to no pattern tend to be the safest. While they may not be as bright and bold, these dishes are sleek and safe. Let's get shopping.

Corelle Winter Frost White Dinnerware

Classic and timeless, this dinnerware will last for years. These lightweight dishes can be used daily or can even be used for your fanciest of dinners.

A triple layer of strong glass makes these plates highly resistant to cracks and chips. This Corelle dishware is easy-to-clean, ultra-hygienic, and non-porous. Made in the USA, these dishes are dishwasher and microwave safe, making them incredibly versatile and easy to use.

Check out this Corelle dishware on Amazon.

Anchor Hocking Presence Dinnerware

Give Anchor Hocking a try when choosing your next dinnerware. Crafted from thick, high-impact soda-lime glass, these plates are several times stronger than ordinary glass. They can withstand rapid temperature changes and will not warp or stain.

These plates are BPA-free and contain no harsh chemicals. And don't worry about matching these plates to your other decor. Glass goes with everything, making these extremely versatile. You won't be disappointed in these elegant yet strong pieces.

Click here to find Anchor Hocking on Amazon.

Corelle Vitrelle Misty Leave Dinnerware

If plain white or glass dinnerware isn't your thing, this patterned dinnerware from Corelle might be what you're searching for. It has all the great features of Corelle dinnerware with a bit of pizazz. Choose this if you're looking for durability, ease, and style.

Find this beautiful Corelle dinnerware on Amazon.

Fiesta Dinnerware

Fiesta dinnerware is crafted using fully-lead free vitrified ceramic. Using this material results in a shiny, glass-like, watertight finish. Ceramic dishware is typically ruined when washed in the dishwasher.

Fiestaware, however, is dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe. Designed with a slight curve, these plates work perfectly to cut meat and secure those slippery sauces.  Available in a wide variety of colors, these dishes will not disappoint.

Use this link to purchase Fiesta dinnerware on Amazon.

Le Tauci Dinnerware

Simple yet sturdy, Le Tauci ceramic stoneware is perfect for any table. No worries, as this dishware is lead and cadmium-free for a healthy meal-time. This glazed ceramic is odor and stain-resistant and will last for years. Place them in your dishwasher for easy clean-up. These dishes stack beautifully, making them easy to store. Perfect for everyday use, these dishes will last for years.

You may be interested in these Le Tauci dishes on Amazon.

What is the Most Eco-Friendly Plate?

Several options are available if you're searching for eco-friendly dinnerware. Here are a few materials to consider when searching for sustainable dinnerware.

Ceramic

Ceramic is both affordable and extremely popular. Consider replacing your paper or plastic dinnerware with ceramic dishes. Ceramic doesn't contain harmful chemicals, and dishes made from this material can last a lifetime.

Bamboo

This trendy choice of dishware is both renewable and biodegradable. Bamboo dishes are perfect for kids as they are non-breakable. Capturing the beauty of nature, these bamboo dishes are sustainably sourced and are great for eco-conscious cooks.

Check out this bamboo dinnerware set on Amazon.

Stone

Stoneware offers a classic look while also being naturally non-toxic. One drawback is this dinnerware can be quite heavy if you are looking for something light. It is incredibly durable and will last for a long time.

In Closing

If you're concerned about whether your Corelle dishes or any dishware, for that matter, are contaminated with lead, it's best to replace them with a new, safe design. Pre-1970, decorative pieces of Corelle dishware can be a red flag for lead or cadmium. It's better to be safe than sorry and retire those old Corelle dishes to the display cabinet and buy a new set that can be used for a lifetime.

Find more information about Corelle dishware by clicking on the following links:

Do Corelle Dishes Break Easily?

Can Corelle Dishes Go In The Microwave?