Stanley, the company behind the popular insulated tumblers that have gained viral attention, is facing scrutiny after consumers posted home lead test results on social media. Concerned users on TikTok and Instagram have shared videos showing their at-home lead test findings, revealing the presence of lead in their Stanley tumblers. While it is unclear which specific brands of at-home lead tests were used in these videos, it is worth noting that EPA-certified home lead tests, such as D-Lead, are expected to provide accurate results 95% of the time when used correctly.
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In response to these claims, Stanley has acknowledged the use of lead in the manufacturing process of their products. The company emphasizes that their vacuum insulation technology, a key feature of their drinkware, ensures that the lead-sealed area is inaccessible to consumers, reported the BBC. According to Stanley’s statement on their website, the surface of any Stanley product that comes into contact with the consumer or the contents of the product is free from lead. The company also asserts that their products meet all US regulatory requirements.
“At Stanley, one of the key features of our products is our vacuum insulation technology, which provides consumers with drinkware that keeps beverages at the ideal temperature. Once sealed, this area is covered with a durable stainless steel layer, making it inaccessible to consumers. Rest assured that no lead is present on the surface of any Stanley product that comes into contact with the consumer nor the contents of the product.”
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Regarding the lead content in Stanley cups, experts are not overly concerned. Jack Caravanos, a professor of public health at New York University, conducted tests on three Stanley cups and found no lead. He even attempted to open the cups to test the inside but was unsuccessful. Caravanos explained that while there may be lead present, it was likely too deep inside the unit to pose any risk of exposure or ingestion. However, he did express his concern about companies still using lead in their manufacturing processes. He mentioned that under Proposition 65, products sold in California must disclose even trace amounts of lead. Stanley’s brand FAQs state that all their items comply with Prop 65 and FDA requirements.
Patty Davis, press secretary for the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, could not comment on the lead in Stanley products specifically. However, she mentioned that similar products from other companies with excessive levels of lead have recently been recalled. Davis encourages consumers to report any incidents or safety concerns regarding consumer products to the CPSC through their website, www.SaferProducts.gov. Consumers can also search for product recalls on the same platform.