Vintage 'Radioactive Red' Fiestaware plates are radioactive enough to trigger Geiger counters.

The Homer Laughlin China Company introduced the 'Radioactive Red' color in 1936, using natural uranium oxide to achieve its signature bright orange-red hue. During this era, uranium was a common industrial pigment before its nuclear properties were prioritized for the Manhattan Project. Production of the red glaze halted in 1943 when the federal government seized uranium stocks for weapons development.The glaze typically contains between 4.5% and 14% uranium by weight, making it significantly more radioactive than modern consumer goods. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), these ceramics emit detectable levels of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. While the external radiation dose is generally low for casual handlers, the primary danger comes from internal exposure through ingestion.Scientific studies have shown that acidic foods, such as tomato sauce or salad dressing, can chemically react with the glaze. This process, known as leaching, allows uranium and other heavy metals to migrate from the ceramic surface into the food. Ingesting uranium can lead to kidney toxicity and increased long-term cancer risks. Collectors are advised to store these items behind glass and never use them for food service or food storage.