SG 084/26
Luxembourg amends rules to tighten migration limits for lead and cadmium in food contact ceramics.
In May 2026, Luxembourg published Grand-Ducal Regulation of May 19, 2026, revising the amended Grand-Ducal Regulation of February 1985 concerning ceramic articles intended to come into contact with food (consolidated version applicable as of May 29, 2026). This amendment is related to Decision M (2024) 5 of the Benelux Committee of Ministers of November 29, 2024, concerning food contact ceramics.
What does this regulation require?
Key amendments introduce the following changes:
- Stricter migration limits for lead and cadmium (see Table 1 below)
- Expanded provision allowing economic operators to consider specific factors when placing ceramic articles on the market, including:
- The composition of substances used in manufacturing
- The potential use of substances containing lead or cadmium in food contact ceramics, including the interior, underglaze or the exterior of the product
- Additional documentation or information from suppliers
- Test results conducted on similar materials or articles
- Quality control measures
| Ceramic article category | Lead | Cadmium |
| Category 1 Articles which cannot be filled and articles which can be filled, the internal depth of which, measured from the lowest point to the horizontal plane passing through the upper rim, does not exceed 25 mm | 6 µg/dm² | 4 µg/dm² |
| Category 2 All other articles which can be filled | 30 µg/L | 20 µg/L |
| Category 3 Cooking ware; packaging and storage vessels having a capacity of more than three liters | 10 µg/L | 7 µg/L |
Table 1
Who is impacted?
The amendment affects stakeholders across the food contact ceramic materials and articles supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in the Luxemburg market.
When does it apply?
The regulation became effective on May 29, 2026.
It is important to note that the Netherlands has recently updated its rules for food contact ceramics (SafeGuardS 76/26).
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We provide comprehensive FCM testing, including migration tests, along with expert guidance on evolving regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. Our expertise ensures your products meet the appropriate territorial regulations for food contact materials and helps pave the way for compliance. Contact us to learn more, or visit our website. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.
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