Does Starbucks Clear Glass Coffee Mugs Contain Lead?
Starbucks clear glass coffee mugs have been a staple of the popular coffee chain since it first opened in 1971. And while they have been a popular choice among many customers, there have been questions raised about the safety of the mugs due to the presence of lead.
What Could be the Problem?
Some reports indicate that certain Starbucks clear glass mugs have tested positive for lead. Lead is an extremely toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, if ingested. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and children, as exposure to lead can cause permanent damage to their developing brains.
How Did Starbucks Respond?
In response to the reports, Starbucks voluntarily recalled more than 73,000 of its clear glass mugs from US and Canadian stores in 2005. The company offered to replace the recalled mugs with a lead-free version, thanking customers for their understanding and cooperation. Since then, Starbucks has committed to using only lead-free mugs in their stores.
Is the Lead-Free Mug Safe?
Yes, the lead-free mug is safe for use. The mugs are made from borosilicate glass, a type of glass that has been tested and confirmed to be non-toxic and lead-free.
Other Things to Consider
Before buying a Starbucks clear glass mug or any other glass mug, there are a few things to consider:
- Check the label: Make sure the mug is labelled “lead-free”.
- Cleaning: Always clean the mug before use, as cleaning removes any residue that could contain lead.
- Temperature: Don’t let the mug get too hot as this could cause lead to leach into your drink.
In conclusion, Starbucks clear glass coffee mugs are safe for use when purchased from an official Starbucks store. However, if you are concerned about lead contamination, we recommend you always check the label, clean the mug thoroughly, and avoid using it with very hot liquids.
