ISO 7086-2:2000

Overview

ISO 7086-2:2000 specifies permissible limits for the release of lead and cadmium from glass hollowware intended to be used in contact with food and beverages. The part applies to items used for preparation, cooking, serving and storage of food, and excludes glass-ceramic ware, glass flatware and articles used in food manufacturing or retail food displays. The limits are intended as industry-state thresholds to harmonize regulatory requirements and reduce exposure to these toxic metals, not as absolute safety exposure limits.

Key Topics

• Permissible limits (mg/l) - sample size n = 4 specimens:

  • Small hollowware (capacity < 600 ml): Pb 1.5 mg/l, Cd 0.5 mg/l
  • Large hollowware (600 ml to 3 l): Pb 0.75 mg/l, Cd 0.25 mg/l
  • Storage hollowware (≥ 3 l): Pb 0.5 mg/l, Cd 0.25 mg/l

• Test and measurement basics:

  • The standard references an extraction test using a 4 % (V/V) acetic acid solution (the solution of test/extraction) to determine released metal concentrations.
  • Analytical methods referenced include atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and flame AAS; calibration and direct-dosage approaches are described in the related test method (ISO 7086-1).

• Definitions and scope:

  • Terms defined in the part include the rim in contact with lips (20 mm width), categories of hollowware by capacity, reference surface area and extraction solution.

• Reproducibility and variability:

  • The document documents analytical reproducibility and sampling variability. Reported reproducibility standard deviations for measured release are approximately 0.094 mg/l (Pb) and 0.012 mg/l (Cd). Sampling variability for extraction behavior can be substantial (reported coefficient of variation around 60 % for large populations), and should be considered when setting sampling plans and interpreting results.

Applications

• Use ISO 7086-2:2000 to:

  • Define product specifications and acceptance criteria for glass foodware exported or sold in regulated markets.
  • Support compliance testing programs in manufacturing quality control and due diligence for suppliers of glass hollowware.
  • Harmonize limits across jurisdictions to reduce non-tariff trade barriers while protecting consumers from excessive lead/cadmium release.

• Practical compliance tips:

  • Follow the companion test method (ISO 7086-1) for extraction and analysis.
  • Use a minimum of four test specimens per sample as indicated in the standard.
  • Account for high sampling variability when designing acceptance criteria and sampling frequencies.

Related Standards

• ISO 7086-1 - Glass hollowware in contact with food: Method of test (extraction and analysis)
• ISO 3696 - Water for laboratory use (analytical quality)
• ASTM C738-94 - Lead and Cadmium extracted from glazed ceramic surfaces (reference)
• WHO reports and reviews on glass foodware safety (see bibliography in ISO 7086-2)

For manufacturers, testing labs and regulators, ISO 7086-2:2000 provides clear, internationally harmonized thresholds and definitions to manage lead and cadmium release from glassware used with food, supporting product safety and market access.