Corelle dinnerware, known for its durability and lightweight design, has been a staple in kitchens for over half a century. Manufactured from Vitrelle, a unique tempered glass, Corelle products were initially introduced by Corning and are now produced by Instant Brands. Consumers often wonder about the safety of older Corelle pieces, especially concerning lead content, given evolving safety standards over the decades.
Corelle has consistently prioritized safety, adhering to regulations prevalent at the time of manufacture. Recognizing the advancements in both manufacturing processes and safety regulations, Corelle routinely conducts rigorous testing for lead and cadmium in its products at certified third-party laboratories. These tests consistently confirm compliance with all applicable federal and state safety guidelines.
Throughout its history under Corning and later Instant Brands, Corelle dinnerware has been available in a wide array of patterns, with many vintage designs becoming highly sought-after collectibles. Historically, before the year 2000 and stricter lead safety regulations, a small amount of lead was used in the decorative enamels of numerous household items. Understanding consumer concerns about older items, Instant Brands commissioned independent laboratory testing to assess the safety of vintage Corelle manufactured before 2000, specifically to determine if these items meet today’s safety expectations for everyday use. The company selected various vintage Corelle patterns, some dating back to 1978, for comprehensive testing.
The focus of the testing was to evaluate the potential for lead migration from the food contact surface of pre-2000 Corelle products, ensuring that any leaching would remain well within current acceptable lead-safety limits. Even when lead was used in pre-2000 decorations, it was meticulously encapsulated within layers of glass both before and after the decorative application, undergoing firing at temperatures exceeding 750°C. Corelle’s manufacturing process has always prioritized the encapsulation of decorations in glass, utilizing extremely high processing temperatures to effectively seal the glass decorations. This sealing process is crucial in preventing direct food contact with the decorations and significantly minimizing any potential lead migration into food.
The reassuring results from these tests demonstrate that the tested vintage Corelle products meet the stringent lead-safety standards set by the FDA today. Therefore, you can confidently use your vintage Corelle dinnerware for everyday meals, knowing it adheres to current safety regulations.
