EU EN 1388 Test Report on Lead and Cadmium Release
Date：2026-09-23 09:16:48 Classification
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Detailed Overview of EU EN 1388 Lead and Cadmium Migration Test Reports
EN 1388 is the core EU testing standard for determining the release of lead and cadmium from food-contact materials such as ceramics, glass, and enamelware; it is a mandatory test for such materials entering the EU and French markets.
I. Standard System Structure
| Part | Standard Number | Scope
| Part 1 | EN 1388-1 | Determination of lead and cadmium release from ceramic ware (ref. EN ISO 6486-1)
| Part 2 | EN 1388-2 | Determination of lead and cadmium release from glass ware (ref. ISO 7086-2)
| Part 3 | EN 1388-3 | Enamelware (ref. EN ISO 4531-2)
Note: Ceramic products currently primarily utilize the EN ISO 6486 series of standards; EN 1388 is often used as an alternative or reference standard. II. Limit Requirements
In accordance with EU Directive 84/500/EEC and subsequent amendments:
Limits for Ceramicware
| Vessel Type | Lead (Pb) | Cadmium (Cd)
| Non-storage vessels (cups, bowls, etc.) | ≤ 0.8 mg/dm² | ≤ 0.07 mg/dm²
| Storage vessels (pitchers, jars, etc.) | ≤ 4.0 mg/L | ≤ 0.3 mg/L
Limits for Glassware
Lead release: Refer to ISO 7086 series standards
Differentiated limits set based on vessel shape
III. Key Test Parameters
| Parameter | Ceramic Test Conditions | Glass Test Conditions
| Extraction medium | 4% acetic acid solution (v/v) | 4% acetic acid solution
| Extraction temperature | 22±2°C (room temperature extraction) | 22±2°C
| Extraction duration | 24 hours × 2 cycles or 30 minutes × 3 cycles | Adjusted based on vessel type
| Sample quantity | At least 4 finished units of the same model | At least 4 units
| Test areas | Inner wall, rim, and exterior decorative areas | Distinction between decorated and non-decorated areas
IV. Report Processing Workflow
Step 1: Sample and Documentation Preparation
1. Submit at least 6–8 finished product samples (to ensure sufficient quantity for testing)
2. Prepare product technical data: material specifications, glaze composition, decoration process
3. Provide product dimension drawings
Step 2: Laboratory Selection
Laboratory must hold ISO 17025 accreditation (e.g., Dezewei Testing, CNAS Registration No.: L8083)
Some laboratories can issue reports accepted in multiple regions (dual recognition by EU and France DGCCRF)
Step 3: Test Execution
1. Sample pre-treatment and cleaning
2. Preparation of extraction solution and contact test
3. Instrumental analysis via ICP-MS or AAS
4. Data Calculation and Result Determination
Step 4: Report Issuance
English-language test report (accepted across the EU)
Includes product photos, sample ID, and test data
Clear conclusion: Pass (compliant) / Fail (non-compliant)
V. Core Report Content
A compliant EN 1388 test report must include:
1. Client and sample identification information
2. Standard number and version used for testing
3. Detailed records of leaching conditions
4. Measured release data for lead and cadmium
5. Comparison with limit values and compliance determination
6. Testing instruments and method detection limits
7. Signatures of testing personnel and reviewers
8. Report issuance date (no fixed expiration date)
VI. Application Scenarios and Mutual Recognition
| Market | Associated Requirements
| EU | EN 1388/ISO 6486 report + Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
| France | Accepts EN 1388 reports, but specific scenarios require a DGCCRF report in French
| Germany | LFGB certification (involves sensory testing and multi-element migration)
| Italy | Must comply with DM 21/03/1973 regulations
| China to EU | Must align with the European Authorized Representative (EC-REP) system
VII. Cost and Timeline Reference
| Item | Timeline | Cost Range
| Full test suite for one sample type | 5–7 working days | 800–1500
Key Considerations
1. Sample representativeness: Different parts of decorative patterns must be tested separately; painted areas on the inner wall pose the highest risk.
2. Multiple extraction principle: First 24-hour extraction + second 24-hour extraction; determination based on the second result.
3. Small vessel handling: Samples with a volume of less than 20 mL require special leaching methods.
4. Report validity: No mandatory expiration date, but annual re-testing or re-testing upon changes to key raw materials is recommended.
5. Multi-market compatibility: Clearly inform the laboratory of target markets during the application process to avoid redundant testing.
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