It’s hard to go on social media without seeing a video about something that’s supposedly harming our health, whether it’s food ingredients, makeup products or ― in the case of one viral Reel ― products from nationwide retailer HomeGoods.
An Instagram user known as The Lead Lady, who tests household items for lead after she says her daughter was lead poisoned, recently filmed herself testing dishes (teacups, mugs, plates, bowls) at HomeGoods. The video, which has been viewed by more than 15 million people, appears to show that multiple items in the store tested positive for the heavy metal. The products were tested with a consumer lead testing device that experts told HuffPost isn’t the most accurate way to detect lead; it’s unclear if these results were corroborated by a more formal testing source. It also appears the social media user partnered with the lead testing device brand for the post.
HomeGoods and The Lead Lady did not immediately reply to HuffPost’s request for comment.
While experts are unsure of the validity of the claims in the viral video, it is clear that millions of social media users are concerned about lead’s health risks. The heavy metal can cause serious health issues, particularly in kids. Here’s what to know about lead safety and the presence of lead in household items.
