Beware of “Poison” from the Mouth: An Analysis of Risks from Substandard Cups (Part III)

There are stories in every cup, warmth in every life—hello everyone, "Dong Dong's Cup Talk" is here. As people's pursuit of material comfort, convenience, and health grows, cups have evolved from optional accessories to essential items in daily life and work. https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlHowever, some consumers prioritize affordability over quality, believing that cheaper means "better value." Unbeknownst to them, unscrupulous businesses exploit this mindset by marketing substandard cups that often come with a host of issues.

These cups may have problems with quality, craftsmanship, or material safety. Today, as someone with years of experience in the cup industry, I will break down the risks associated with using non-compliant cups. https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlGiven my limited expertise, I have consulted numerous sources to compile this information. If you spot any inaccuracies or unclear explanations, please feel free to point them out. Due to the extensive content, I will organize the information into separate articles based on different materials.

Cups are our daily companions for hydration, and their material safety directly impacts our health. The diverse array of cup products on the market can turn into "health bombs" that slowly release harmful substances if they fail to meet production standards, use inferior materials, or exhibit flawed craftsmanship. https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlI will systematically analyze the hidden dangers of various types of substandard cups.

III. Ceramic Cups: The "Lead and Cadmium Trap" Beneath the Beautiful Glaze

The safety risks of ceramic cups mainly stem from the glaze and firing process.

Types of Non-Compliance:

1. Overglaze Decoration:

Pigments applied on top of the glaze layer come into direct contact with beverages, https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlmaking it easy for heavy metals to leach out.

2. Insufficient Firing Temperature:

Leads to a porous ceramic body and unstable glaze, making it easier for harmful substances to migrate.

3. Use of Inferior Glazes/Pigments:

To cut costs, cheap pigments containing high levels of lead and cadmium are used—especially common in brightly colored, https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmllow-quality cups.

Core Harmful Substances and Health Impacts:

1. Lead (Pb):

Primarily used as a flux and brightening agent in glazes.

Impact: A typical neurotoxin, particularly harmful to children, leading to reduced intelligence, attention deficits, https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmland learning disabilities. Long-term exposure in adults can damage the kidneys and reproductive system.

2. Cadmium (Cd):

Commonly used in bright pigments such as red and yellow.

Impact: Accumulates in the kidneys and bones, causing "itai-itai disease" (severe bone pain, https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlosteoporosis, and fractures) and is a confirmed carcinogen.

Production Standards and Process Requirements:

1. Standards:

Must comply with the strict limits for lead and cadmium migration as stipulated in GB 4806.4-2016.

2. Processes:

Priority should be given to underglaze or in-glaze techniques (where pigments are placed beneath or within the glaze layer, effectively isolating them). https://www.zhanyict.com/en/ProductsDetail-VB-10531.htmlThe firing temperature must meet requirements (typically above 1200°C) to ensure the glaze fully vitrifies and forms a stable protective layer.

There are stories in the cup, life has warmth, use a good cup to enjoy a healthy life. We provide OEM business to more than 100 companies around the world, and produce more than 3 million pieces of various stainless steel/plastic cups and pots annually. Honoring promises, keeping reputation, ensuring quality and quantity, and delivering on time are our service principles and our professional commitment. Dongguan Zhan Yi Commodity Technology Co.,Ltd. welcomes global merchants to conduct on-site factory inspections and in-depth cooperation.