Lead-Contaminated Saucepans Recalled Across More Than 30 States

No illnesses have been reported yet, but health officials worry about long-term exposure.

Published: 12/15/2025, 3:37:15 AM EST

Lead-Contaminated Saucepans Recalled Across More Than 30 States — Four varieties of saucepans sold by Town Food Service Equipment Co., Inc. are being recalled in more than 30 states. (FDA)

A large recall affecting kitchens in more than 30 states has been issued for aluminum saucepans that may contain dangerous levels of lead, federal health officials said this week.

Town Food Service Equipment Co., Inc., based in Brooklyn, New York, announced the recall on Dec. 12 after federal regulators found the contamination. The company is pulling back four different sizes of aluminum saucepans—ranging from 1 quart to 3 quarts—that were distributed since early 2023 through kitchen equipment dealers nationwide.

The affected saucepans have interior measurement markings and steel handles attached with rivets. Buyers can identify the recalled products by their specific product numbers: item number 843784003559 (1 quart), 843784003566 (1.5 quart), 843784003573 (2 quart), and 843784003580 (3 quart).

"Lead is toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status, and there is no known safe level of exposure to lead," the company said in an announcement published by the FDA. The company has since discontinued production and distribution of the pans, but continues to investigate the issue alongside federal authorities.

The saucepans were sold in more than 30 states, stretching from Alabama to Washington, as well as Puerto Rico and Quebec City, Canada. The recall impacts a wide area that includes major markets like California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.

While lead paint has been banned in the United States since 1978, lead-based products continue circulating in developing countries and occasionally appear in imported goods.

The pans subject to this recall were manufactured in Pakistan.

This is not the first recall this year for leachable lead in imported cookware. Distributors have issued more than 20 recalls for saucepans and other imported cookware manufactured in India and Pakistan since October.

Lead exposure poses particular dangers for young children and babies, whose developing brains and smaller bodies make them more vulnerable than adults. Even minimal exposure can interfere with learning and cause behavioral problems, according to the Mayo Clinic. Higher exposure levels can trigger more serious symptoms including tiredness, headaches, stomach pain, vomiting, and neurological changes.

Medical experts note that the risks extend beyond children. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable because lead can harm unborn babies, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some exposed babies are born prematurely or with lower birth weights. Adults exposed to lead may experience high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, memory issues, and headaches.

The discovery came through an FDA sampling program that detected leachable lead in the finished saucepans. No illnesses have been reported yet but health officials say the concern is with long-term exposure. Lead accumulates in the body over time and can cause permanent damage that isn't immediately obvious.

Customers who bought these saucepans should return them to their retailer for a complete refund. Town Food Service Equipment is offering support through its recall team at 718-388-5650, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The company also established an email address for questions: [email protected].

Additional details and updates are available on the company's recall webpage at https://townfood.com/recall-alum/, where customers can track the situation and get more information.

Medical professionals recommend several steps to reduce lead exposure risk. Washing hands and toys frequently can help reduce dust transfer. Regular cleaning with damp cloths and wet mops captures lead particles before they spread. People with older plumbing should run cold water for at least a minute before using it for cooking or baby formula preparation. Proper nutrition with adequate calcium, vitamin C, and iron can help reduce how much lead the body absorbs.