IKM, a company based in San Jose, California, has issued a recall for several types of cookware due to the potential risk of lead contamination. The products affected by this recall include the A-cook Aluminum Kadai size 5, Brass Tope, IKM 4-quart Pital brass pot, and IKM Aluminum saucepan with a wooden handle. In total, over 100 items are involved.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discovered elevated levels of lead in these products during a routine sampling program. Lead exposure is considered dangerous at any level and can cause health problems in people of all ages. Children and fetuses are particularly vulnerable because their bodies absorb lead more easily and they are still developing. Symptoms from low-level exposure may not be obvious but can include learning difficulties and behavioral changes in children. Higher levels can result in fatigue, headaches, stomach pain, vomiting, or neurological effects.
The recalled cookware was distributed to grocery stores across several California cities such as Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Fremont, Hayward, Pittsburg, Milpitas, Tracy, Manteca, Dublin, El Cerrito, Richmond, Hercules, San Jose, Fresno, Pleasanton, Roseville and Sacramento.
Consumers can identify the A-cook Aluminum Kadai by its silver color and wok-style shape without a long handle. The Aluminum Saucepan has a nine-inch diameter with a wooden handle attached to its silver aluminum body. The Brass Tope is golden-colored like a stock pot with a bright finish; the Pital Brass Pot has a deeper body with a narrow mouth and matte gold appearance.
No illnesses related to these products have been reported so far. According to IKM: "The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the FDA which revealed that the finished products contained elevated levels of lead. IKM has ceased the distribution of the product as IKM continues their investigation as to what caused the problem."
Consumers who bought any of these items are advised to return them for a full refund at their place of purchase or contact IKM directly at 1-650-695-9009 during business hours.
"This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration," according to IKM.
