Do cookware utensils need FDA approval?

The US FDA regulates food contact surfaces. Cookware and utensils fall under this category. The FDA does not require approval for every piece of cookware or utensil before it hits the market, but the materials from which it is constructed must be “generally regarded as safe” (GRAS) and it must be free of hazardous defects and design flaws to be in compliance with the FD&C act. Examples of GRAS materials are stainless steel or Teflon pan coating. Examples of defects or design flaws include leakage (burn hazard), breakage, handle temperature, handle strength, lid fit, etc. In the absence of routine inspections or sampling activities for cookware the FDA depends on consumer complaints. The FDA has limited inspectional resources and prioritizes its surveillance activities based on anticipated risk to Public Health. Low-risk items such as stainless steel utensils or cookware are not as much of a concern as high risk items such as ceramic mugs glazed with lead oxide which are regularly sampled and tested. The manufacturing firm or distributor may be subject to inspection by a consumer safety officer and the FDA may issue a warning letter, product recall, or injunction should they find a product to be in violation.

Non-Stick Cookware Set, Pots and Pans – 8-Piece Set