Food-safe certification is the first gate for importing ceramic tableware into Western markets. This guide summarizes what wholesale buyers should verify before placing an order.
1. Verify food-contact compliance
For the US market, ceramic tableware must comply with FDA CPG 7117.06/07 limits on lead and cadmium extraction. For the EU and Germany, LFGB Section 30/31 testing is the common requirement. Ask your supplier for test reports covering both the glaze surface and decorated areas — decorations often carry higher migration risk than the bare glaze.
2. Check glaze quality and coverage
A high-quality glaze covers the entire visible surface with no pinholes, crazing or bare edges. Unglazed foot rings are acceptable only if specified. For stoneware, verify the body is fully vitrified with water absorption below 3%.
3. Edge strength and durability
For hotel and catering channels, request reinforced-edge products tested for more than 5,000 dishwasher cycles. Chip resistance is mostly determined by body formula and edge profiling, not glaze thickness alone.
4. Practical checkpoints before ordering
- Request third-party test reports (FDA / LFGB) issued within the last 12 months
- Order samples and run your own dishwasher and microwave tests
- Confirm carton drop-test results for long-distance shipping
FAQ
What certificates should a ceramic tableware factory have?
FDA and LFGB test reports for food-contact safety, plus BSCI or similar social-compliance audits if you sell to European retail chains.
Does food-safe mean microwave safe?
No. Food-contact safety and microwave safety are different properties. Always verify microwave safety separately.
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