Document 1gbjVekvpQ94Ja0vKJKvR9pB5

August 16, 1972 Mrs* In A* Fop^fcu 900 Buaty Eoad Dellwsrs, Ohio 43015 Dear fere* topescut IH*86 bead Glazes for Dlnnerw&re Thank you tor your letter of June 9 regarding the possibility of toxic substances being released toon your ceramic coffee mugs* I ean not answer your question regarding the composition of the coffee-colored residue but X suspect that this material la related to the coffee In the mugs and possibly to the detergent being used in your dishwasher rather than through the release of substance* toon thwenug Itself. Lead or cadmium release toon ceramic glares is colorless and would be In such small quantities even When hazardous, that you could not see it. Enclosed is a copy of oar booklet "Facts about lead Glares for Art Potters and Hobbyists'*. In this booklet, several laboratories are listed which can perform a lead release test for you. Without knowing the results of such a teat. It would be Impossible for me to speculate on the effects of using these mugs over several years. However, since the majority of ceramic ware is unquestionably safe, 1 would fioubt that your husband is in any danger at all. If you are concerned about lead poisoning, 1 suggest that your husband see a physician and that a blood lead test be run on him. Sincerely, y J. F. Cole, Sc.D. Director, Environmental Health JFCtec \ \ LIA-76928