Supply Chain Analysis of Aluminium Cookware across Tamil Nadu

CAG, in collaboration with Pure Earth, conducted a study to analyse the supply chain of aluminium cookware in selected locations of Tamil Nadu. The project aims to highlight the issues of lead contamination within the aluminium cookware industry in the region.

Contamination of lead beyond permissible levels in aluminium utensils has been a festering problem in low- and middle-income countries, with the effects marked among the low-income population. Globally, several studies have indicated that children exposed to lead show stunted brain development, lower IQ, and attention issues. These have long term consequences including underperformance in school. A recent study in Bihar, India, found that 90% of homes with lead-poisoned children had aluminium cookware whose lead content exceeded prescribed limits, indicating a strong link between lead poisoning and the use of such cookware.

The project identified the following approach:

To study the aluminum cookware supply chain in Tamil Nadu
To design and execute a dissemination workshop of the findings with key relevant stakeholders.
To develop a comprehensive advocacy framework for improved regulations/standards of aluminium cookware.
To develop IECs for wider dissemination with the key partners/stakeholders

Improved awareness among key stakeholders on general lead-related issues through supply chain analysis.
A recommendation to enhance a comprehensive regulatory framework by addressing the existing gaps in regulations and standards for aluminium cookware production, ensuring that it is lead-free or within permissible levels.