SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 055.24 to help stakeholders stay informed about changes to cookware regulations in the US state of Washington.
The State Governor signed House Bill 1551 (HB 1551) into law on March 28, 2024, making it the first state in the US to regulate lead in cookware and cookware components. Effective January 1, 2026, these products must have a lead component of no more than 5 ppm.
The new law adds a new chapter to Title 70A RCW and, in addition to the above requirement, authorizes the Department of Ecology (DOE), in consultation with the Department of Health (DOH), to lower the 5 ppm lead limit by rule after December 2034, if it is feasible to achieve a lower limit.
The law defines cookware as any metal bakeware, pans, pots, rice cookers, pressure cookers and other containers and devices intended for the preparation or storage of food. The definition for cookware components covers separate and distinct parts of the finished product, including, inter alia, accessories such as fasteners, handles and handle assemblies, knobs, lids, rivets, valves and vents.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory and market changes that could impact their business.
SGS Food Contact Material Services
SGS’s technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s Food Contact Material Services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Washington, USA, Becomes First State to Ban Lead in Cookware SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: (+852) 2774 7420
Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, SGS NA.
Tel: + 1 312 414 9394
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Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
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