What are common sources of lead poisoning?

Common sources of lead poisoning include:

  • Lead-based paint on older homes, buildings, furniture, and fixtures built before 1978
  • Home Remedies also known as Traditional/Folk/Ayurvedic Medicine, candy and spices have been found to contain lead. Some examples include:
    • Surma
    • Kohl
    • Alkohl
    • Azarcon
    • Greta
    • Ghasard
    • Kandu
    • Lozeena
    • Pay-loo-ah
    • Sindoor
    • Daw-Tway
  • Handmade or imported pottery and tableware with leaded paint or glaze. Terra cotta pots, highly decorative, imported low cost dishware, and antique tableware have been found to contain lead
  • Take-home exposure. Some jobs such as auto repair, construction, metal work, soldering, battery manufacturing, or working at a shooting range may expose people to lead that they bring home on their clothes, shoes, equipment, or car. Soil contaminated from when leaded gasoline was used and from factory pollution, especially in areas that are near busy roadways, freeways, or factories
  • Spices, such as chili, tamarind, and turmeric have been found to contain lead
  • Imported candy or food, especially candies containing chili and/or tamarind as well as chapulines (toasted grasshoppers). Lead can be in the candy, spices, wrapper, or container
  • Imported food in cans that are sealed with lead solder. Food cans with lead solder often have wide seams
  • Metal jewelry and accessories. Lead has been found in inexpensive children's jewelry sold in vending machines as well as costume jewelry designed for adults

Show All Answers

1. What is lead poisoning?
2. What are common sources of lead poisoning?
3. How do I protect my family from lead poisoning?
4. Where can I find home remodeling information?
5. Where do I learn more about lead-safe work practices?
6. What products have been recalled for lead?
7. What role does nutrition play in preventing lead poisoning?