I love vintage Pyrex, you will see it on my page and social media a lot. However, there is something to be aware of when it comes to most vintage dishes and cookware, including Pyrex. It can have lead.
Vintage Pyrex does often have lead in the coatings. So you may wonder why I’m using it. I have done a lot of research on this issue and have found that it’s the outside of the item that is of concern and the biggest concern is when it’s damaged.
I am very careful with my Pyrex and use it in a very limited way. The only time I use the bowls for food is if the food is packaged (like a candy) or as mixing bowls. And I never use them with acidic ingredients. Almost all of the time I just use them decoratively.
I also always hand wash my Pyrex, which is important to keep them in good condition. I also do not have children. I’m not sure I would use my vintage Pyrex if I did as they are far more susceptible to lead poisoning. This and if you are planning on having children is something to consider when deciding what you feel comfortable with.
I do recommend for most of your food use, especially long-term food storage, that you use new, clear glass containers or stainless steel. Both are the safest options. I love to use modern Pyrex for most of my food use. It’s affordable, good quality, and very safe. I mostly cook in stainless steel. Creo also makes some glass mixing bowls that have a vintage Pyrex feel, they are a bit pricier than the clear glass Pyrex but are very pretty.
Pyrex also has come out with a Vintage Charm line that is inspired by the vintage pieces but should be safe and meet current lead standards. They are also dishwasher safe.
I’m not a lead expert or doctor, this is just what I have found. I do want to stress again that vintage Pyrex often does contain lead, that is not the question, the question is if it’s accessible under normal conditions. There isn’t a clear answer so you need to decide for yourself and your family if you feel comfortable using it or not.
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Original photo credit- Joelk75
Life itself is risky and we could drive ourselves nuts trying to avoid every possible danger. I think you just have to look at things individually and decide what is best for yourself and your family. As you say, children are more susceptible so it makes sense to be more cautious where they are concerned.
I agree. I do make an effort to continually remove harmful things from my life but since my brain is developed I think cancer causing ingredient are higher on my list of things to avoid.
Thanks for this info – I wasn’t aware of this. However, like you, I only use my Pyrex bowls to store loose fruit or veggies, etc. I also don’t have children in the house.
You’re welcome. I feel knowledge is so helpful but we don’t want to be fearful.
Oh no! I might have to rethink my vintage Pyrex bowl set!
I know some people plant plants in them. That is a fun option. There are some other cute display ideas as well. But it’s totally understandable to choose to get them out of your home all together, that is of course the option with the least risks.
I found out about this and have felt weird using my Pyrex pieces for food ever since. I found out that jadeite is much safer, so that’s my vintage go-to now! I do have several Pyrex pieces I’d like to pass on now, since I’m not using them, but I’ve been using my little refrigerator dishes as succulent planters! They fit perfectly between my kitchen sink and window, and I don’t have to worry about lead!
I love that idea! One of my bowls is often a candy bowl for wrapped candy, I keep my wrapped tea in a fridge container, and things like that. I want to use some as planters as well.
thank you for an unbiased article. after reading the comments here, I want to let it be known that lead exposure isn’t just about cancer. it causes a whole host of neurological disorders, and well as general health problems for both adults and children. I have chosen to removed all vintage Pyrex from our home.
Tammy Dunn, LVN
Yes, lead poisoning causes so many health issues. It’s important to always try to make informed choices.
I will continue to use my pyrex, some are from my grandmother and she lived to 97.
Lead poisoning doesn’t usually kill you it has other impacts, mostly on children. Like I said, I still collect it and use it just in a limited way. We all have to make our choices but it’s best to make informed choices. 🙂
This is an important topics to share. I met Tamara Rubin with MisLEAD last year ay ShiftCon. I was surprised at how much lead can be found in vintage Pyrex.
Wow – Thank you for this article! I have a ton of vintage pyrex and will now be getting rid of most of it – will keep a couple pieces that have sentimental value..but not for food anymore! Yikes.
I still have mine and continue to collect it but it’s in a cabinet by itself as decor most of the time. You have to do what you feel comfortable with.