He said the ministry analyses the amount of heavy metals that are leached into food from cookware, in order to evaluate the potential risks to consumers.

However, a newspaper which reported on tests of eight type of ceramic utensils had measured the amount of heavy metals contained in the ceramic cookware, and not the amount of heavy metals leached into food.

“In this case, the method of analysis conducted by the Health Ministry is more acceptable” and consistent with the 1983 Food Act, he said in a statement today.

The newspaper report was of tests for heavy metals and chemical elements using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry.

Dr Noor Hisham said there was a Malaysian standard on the permissible amount of lead and cadmium released from ceramic ware, and the regulations provided for a fine of up to RM5,000 or up to two years’ for anyone convicted of contravening the regulations, Bernama reported.