NOM-225-SCFI-2019 is an Official Mexican Standard that establishes safety specifications and test methods for household utensils with non-stick coatings used forcooking food. The standard aims to ensure the safety of consumers by regulating the quality and performance of non-stick cookware, such as frying pans, pots, and baking trays, to prevent health risks from coating degradation or chemical leaching during use.
Table of Contents
Scope and Product Coverage
The NOM-225-SCFI-2019 standard applies to new household utensils featuring non-stick coatings intended for food preparation, whether they are manufactured within Mexico or imported. These items are generally constructed from materials such as aluminum, steel, or cast iron, with a non-stick layer, for example, ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), applied to the cooking surface. This regulation encompasses products sold individually or as sets, prioritizing safety during standard household use. It excludes industrial-grade cookware, utensils lacking non-stick coatings, and products not meant for direct food contact.
Mandatory Specifications Under NOM-225-SCFI-2019
1. Safety Specifications:
- Coating Integrity: The non-stick surface must resist peeling, cracking, or flaking during operation to prevent food contamination.
- Thermal Resistance: Coatings must withstand standard cooking temperatures, such as 260°C for PTFE-based materials, without degrading or emitting harmful substances.
- Chemical Safety: Strict limits are enforced regarding the migration of heavy metals like lead or cadmium from the coating into food to protect consumer health.
- Mechanical Durability: The surface must endure abrasion and scratching from common kitchen tools to preserve both safety and non-stick functionality.
- Handle Security: If the product includes handles, they must be securely attached and heat-resistant to minimize the risk of burns or accidents.
2. Test Methods:
- Abrasion Resistance Test: This procedure utilizes a standardized abrasive pad to simulate long-term wear and evaluate the durability of the coating.
- Thermal Stability Test: This involves exposing the utensil to elevated temperatures to verify that the coating maintains its performance and safety integrity.
- Chemical Migration Test: This method measures the release of substances into food simulants, such as water or acetic acid, under controlled conditions to ensure sanitary compliance.
- Adhesion Test: This evaluates the bond between the non-stick layer and the base material to prevent delamination.
These protocols are based on Mexican standards and may reference international norms from organizations like ISO or ASTM when applicable.
3. Labeling:
To ensure full transparency, products governed by NOM-225-SCFI-2019 must feature legible and permanent information in Spanish. Labels are required to clearly state the name and address of the manufacturer or importer, the country of origin, and comprehensive instructions for use and maintenance. Furthermore, specific safety warnings regarding maximum temperature limits and recommended cleaning tools must be visible to help the consumer preserve the integrity of the non-stick surface and avoid health risks.
4. How To Demonstrate Compliance With NOM-225-SCFI-2019:
To ensure legal market entry, manufacturers and importers are required to obtain a certificate of conformity from an accredited certification body. Compliance must be clearly indicated through the display of the official mark or the designated certificate number.
Objectives and Regulatory Oversight
The NOM-225-SCFI-2019 regulation establishes a vital safety benchmark for consumer protection, ensuring that domestic cookware remains durable and free from hazardous chemical leaching. It effectively mitigates risks associated with physical and chemical degradation.
Non-compliance, including failure of chemical migration tests or lack of certification, results in restricted market access and potential legal sanctions.
- Dirección General de Normas (DGN): Oversees the technical requirements and updates.
- PROFECO: Performs market surveillance, random testing, and issues fines or recalls for non-compliant goods.
- Customs Authorities: Act as the primary barrier, verifying Certificates of Conformity at the border.
Customs authorities are responsible for verifying compliance for all imported non-stick products.
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