2025 Ceramic Tableware Import Compliance

Thinking of exporting or importing ceramic mugs, plates, or bowls in 2025? You’ll need more than just a beautiful design and a reliable factory—you’ll also need to navigate increasingly strict ceramic tableware compliance regulations, especially in the US and EU markets.

In this article, we break down the key compliance requirements for ceramic tableware in 2025, including FDA regulations, EU cadmium and lead limits, and practical testing strategies to avoid customs delays and product recalls.

Why Ceramic Compliance Matters in 2025

Ceramic tableware is considered a food contact product, meaning it comes into direct contact with food or drink. As such, it must meet health and safety standards that limit the release of toxic substances such as lead and cadmium.

⚠️ Non-compliant products can be:

• Refused at customs

• Recalled after sale

• Fined or destroyed

• Banned from future import

Whether you’re selling ceramic coffee mugs, dinner plates, soup bowls, or tea sets, it’s essential to ensure your products comply with the latest regulations.

1. FDA Ceramic Compliance (United States)

✅ Applicable to:

• All ceramic products intended for food or drink sold in the US

What’s Tested:

• Lead and cadmium leaching from glazed surfaces

• Tested according to 21 CFR Part 175–177 and ASTM C738

Testing Method:

• Leaching tests are performed using 4% acetic acid solution

• Limits vary depending on product type (e.g. mugs vs plates vs jugs)

✅ How to Comply:

• Work with a supplier who regularly tests products

• Request up-to-date lab reports from CMA, SGS, Intertek, or similar third-party labs

2. EU Ceramic Tableware Compliance (Europe)

✅ Applicable to:

• All ceramic tableware imported into the European Union

Regulatory References:

• EU Framework Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004

• Directive 84/500/EEC, amended by Directive 2005/31/EC

What’s Required:

• Limits for the migration of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd)

• Declaration of Compliance (DoC) from the supplier

• Product traceability

Lead & Cadmium Migration Limits (EN 1388-1):

✅ How to Comply:

• Submit samples for EN 1388 testing

• Provide a written DoC with each shipment

• Include manufacturer name, production date, and testing lab info

3. Other Important Compliance Considerations

Labelling & Traceability

• All cartons must have clearly labelled contents

• Each product should be traceable to a batch number or production code

• Include “food safe” icons where applicable

 Documentation Checklist

• Lab Test Report (FDA or EN1388)

• Declaration of Compliance

• Material Safety Data Sheet (optional)

• Product description and photos for customs

4. How Homey Ceramic Supports 2025 Compliance

At Homey Ceramic, we help small businesses and importers simplify compliance. Whether you’re sourcing ceramic mugs, dinner plates, or seasonal tableware like Christmas bowls or Easter platters, we:

✅ Use certified food-safe glazes
✅ Work with top-tier labs like SGS and Intertek
✅ Provide documentation including FDA test reports and EU Declarations of Compliance
✅ Support custom decals and shapes while ensuring testing is passed before mass production

✅ Best Practices for Ceramic Tableware Import Compliance

1. Discuss compliance early with your supplier

2. Test samples before mass production

3. Label all cartons with item codes and batch info

4. Keep copies of all compliance documents

5. Avoid hand-painting with unverified glazes for food-contact areas

 Ready to Import Ceramic Tableware in 2025?

Whether you’re launching a new ceramic mug brand, planning a seasonal tableware collection, or sourcing white-label dinner sets—Homey Ceramic is here to help.

Contact us for compliant, stylish, and export-ready ceramic tableware:
Get in touch here
Or browse our ceramic tableware collections