Housing & Neighborhood Services

⚠️ High-Risk Plates to Avoid

Vintage plates (before 2005): Older dishes, including some Corelle patterns, may contain lead in their decorations.
Bright-colored plates: Bold red, yellow, and orange glazes were more likely to contain lead.
Handmade or imported pottery: Some may not meet modern safety standards.
Chipped or cracked dishes: Damaged glaze can increase lead leaching.
Decorative-only plates: Never eat from dishes labeled "Not for Food Use."

🍅 What Causes Lead to Leach?

Lead can move into food faster when:

Acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus, vinegar, coffee, wine) are served.
Heat from hot foods or microwaving is applied.
Food sits on the plate for a long time.
Dishwasher wear damages the protective glaze over time.

💡 Quick Tip

If you're unsure about an old or decorative plate, it's safest to use it for display only and choose modern, food-safe dinnerware for everyday meals.