Objective: To evaluate traditional acidic curing as a preventive method for reducing lead content of glazed ceramic ware.
Material and methods: In 27 ceramic ware pieces from four states in Mexico, the level of residual lead was determined through atomic absorption spectrophotometry after four washings with acetic acid 3%.
Results: The lead content of the vinegar washing diminished proportionally with the number of washings, although it remained highly above the permissible levels of this metal (2.5-7.0 p.p.m.).
Conclusions: Traditional acidic curing of glazed ceramic ware is not a useful preventive measure for reducing lead exposure.