Study suggests decorated drinking glasses pose a threat to health

Fun, decorative drinking glasses may contain potentially harmful levels of lead and cadmium, a new British study says.

University of Plymouth researchers analyzed 72 new and second-hand decorated drinking glasses, including tumblers, beer and wine glasses, and jars.

Around 7 out of 10 tested positive for lead and cadmium, both toxic metals. Lead was found in all colors and gold-leaf designs, while the highest concentrations of cadmium were in red enamel, the research team reported.

"The presence of hazardous elements in both the paint and glaze of decorated glassware has obvious implications for both human health and the environment. So it was a real surprise to find such high levels of lead and cadmium, both on the outside of the glassware and around the rim," said study leader Andrew Turner.

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