On March 22, CCTV exposed a shocking issue in Wenzhou: a so-called “toxic faucet†that was not just water but potentially harmful substances. The zinc content in the water was 10 times higher than the national standard, and lead levels were an alarming 81 times above the limit—posing serious health risks to consumers. This incident has raised concerns about the safety of faucets and how we can choose healthier options. Are the faucets produced locally also unsafe?
When it comes to kitchen faucets, stainless steel is often the best choice. The recent news about "toxic" faucets has caught the attention of many. A reporter visited the Wenzhou building materials market and found that although some brands promote themselves as "lead-free," most sellers are unaware of the potential risks. Many only mention copper without knowing if their products contain lead.
A study showed that cheaper faucets tend to have higher lead content, which is a major concern for health-conscious buyers. In addition, local quality supervision departments and industrial and commercial authorities mentioned that the last faucet inspection in Wenzhou was years ago, making current data unreliable.
Experts suggest that while copper faucets are common in bathrooms, stainless steel is a safer option for kitchens. During a visit to the Wenzhou Hardware Market, reporters found that many merchants were unaware of the possible presence of harmful substances in faucets. Some even questioned how copper could be toxic or contain lead.
High-quality faucets are typically made from copper, but they may contain impurities that can leach into the water over time. Especially with "overnight water" left in pipes, heavy metals like lead can accumulate.
One salesperson at a "Sanchuang" brand store emphasized that true lead-free faucets are made of stainless steel, though they are more expensive. He pointed out a package labeled "Lead-Free" and explained that this model is actually made of stainless steel. When asked if the copper faucets he sold met the national standards, he laughed and suggested buying copper for the bathroom and stainless steel for the kitchen, claiming that using copper in the kitchen would expose you to lead, while stainless steel would not.
This highlights the importance of being informed when choosing your faucet. Always check for certifications and consider the material carefully. Your health should never be compromised by something as simple as a faucet.
Yong Yue Medical Technology(Kunshan) Co.,Ltd , https://www.yonyue.com