Dishware performance testing helps ensure consumer safety.
Ceramic dishware is subject to chemistry regulations under the The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Also, voluntary safety tests, not regulated by the FDA, are commonly performed by manufacturers to understand the integrity, safety and proper use of their product.
Lead and Cadmium
Lead and cadmium are used in the ceramicware manufacturing process to adhere glazes and decorative decals. These substances are known carcinogens that can cause birth defects or illness to humans. The FDA has strict regulations outlining the amount of lead and cadmium allowed to leach out of dishware and into human food. This allowable limit is based upon studies determining the amount of lead and cadmium humans can be exposed to, per day, without being affected.
Dishwasher Safety
Testing to see how a piece of dishware performs in the dishwasher helps manufacturers to determine the care label that will be provided to consumers. The safety aspect in this case is to the integrity of the dish. A consumer should be notified if they must hand-wash an item to avoid damaging the product. This helps reduce the amount of in-store product returns.
Microwave Safety
Testing to see how ceramicware performs in the microwave helps the manufacturer determine if a warning label stating "do not microwave" should be placed on the product. In some cases, microwave use can cause damage to the product or injury to the consumer. For example, a dinner plate with a metallic decoration may spark in the microwave and cause a fire. This creates potential for injury to the user and increases the chance of a legal claim against the manufacturer.
Thermal Shock
Thermal shock testing exposes the finished dishware to extreme heat and then quickly exposes it to cold water. This simulates a user taking a hot plate and tossing it into the sink for washing. The purpose of this test is to see if the glaze cracks and if the ceramic distorts or shatters when exposed to these extreme conditions.
Chip Resistance
Chip resistance testing simulates normal use and abuse of the dishware item. For example, bumping a knife on the side of a plate or banging a mug down on a table. This gives a good indication of the product's integrity and how it will stand up while in use. This type of testing is especially important for dishes being used in the restaurant industry, since they will be subjected to extreme use and abuse on a daily basis.
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