Can lead in ceramic mugs cause behavior problems in kids?
Lead can leach from some glazed ceramic cups, and child lead exposure is linked with attention and behavior problems. Use glass cups for kids, especially with hot drinks.
What's actually in it
Some ceramic mugs use glazes or pigments that contain lead. Bright colors, older mugs, damaged glaze, and imported ceramics can be higher-risk choices.
Lead is a heavy metal. Kids are more vulnerable because their brains and bodies are still growing.
What the research says
A 2018 Environmental Science and Pollution Research study tested glazed, colorful ceramic cups after microwave heating. Lead and cadmium leached into water above the limits for leachable lead and cadmium in ceramic mugs set by the U.S. FDA. New cups released an average of 7.69 mg/L lead, while old cups released 3.15 mg/L lead.
A 2013 Clinical Psychology Review meta-analysis looked at 33 studies with 10,232 children and adolescents. Lead exposure was associated with inattention and hyperactivity or impulsivity symptoms.
Do not microwave questionable ceramic mugs. For kids and hot drinks, choose glass cups or plain, tested drinkware from a trusted maker.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Leachable lead and cadmium in microwave-heated ceramic cups: possible health hazard to human. | Environ Sci Pollut Res Int | 2018 |
| Lead and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms: a meta-analysis. | Clin Psychol Rev | 2013 |