On January 23rd, IKM of San Jose, CA recalled the following cookware items due to potential lead contamination:
| Product Name | Quantity | Description | Image |
| A-cook Aluminum Kadai size 5 | 43 pcs | Silver-toned, wok-style vessel with a wide, curved basin and no long handle |  |
| Aluminum Saucepan Wooden Handle 9” | 56 pcs | Silver aluminum body with a 9-inch diameter and a wooden handle attached |  |
| 4-Quart Pital Brass Pot | 9 pcs | Dull or matte golden pot with a deep body and narrow mouth |  |
| Brass Tope | 10 pcs | Standard stock pot with a bright, golden finish |  |
Images Sourced from: FDA
Why Is This a Concern?
The recalled items were distributed to grocery stores throughout California, specifically in the Bay Area and Central Valley regions. Families in Nevada may still be affected by this recall if the item was purchased online, received from out-of-state retailers, or brought in by family and friends. Certain aluminum and brass cookware can release lead during cooking or food storage and contaminate food.
No illnesses have been reported to date. These cookware items are also included in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Imported Cookware Warning List.
There is no safe level of lead. Symptoms may not always be obvious, but even small amounts can harm a child’s growth, learning, and development. Exposure to large amounts of lead may cause people to experience fatigue, headache, stomach pain, vomiting, or neurologic changes. Lead can also be dangerous for pregnant people and their unborn child. Parents should check their pantries and take these next steps to protect their family from lead exposure:
What Should You Do?
- Do not use these products to cook, serve, or store food.
- Do not donate or refurbish these products.
- Return the products for a full refund.
- Use stainless steel, cast iron, or other safer alternatives whenever possible.
- Look for certified “lead-free” labels when purchasing new cookware products.
- Call your healthcare provider if you are concerned about potential lead exposure and ask about a blood lead level test.
- Questions? Contact Town Food at 718-388-5650, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM EST.
Read the full FDA announcement here.