My ceramic bowl says "not for food use"? Can I put apples in it?

Ceramic glaze often contains lead. Therefore, you probably don't want to have your apples in it. You can place a decorative cloth or something in the bowl as a barrier and you should be fine, but I'd suggest making sure you wash your fruit before you eat it.

Throw a nice looking cloth in it. It should protect the apples from the bowl. Plus it will dress it up a little bit. A thick napkin works nicely. The bowl may have toxins in it. It all depends on what it was made with. Wet foods would definitely release more of this than dry foods.

There is something in the glaze or the ceramics that is bad. Concern tends to be if a hot liquid or food is placed in the chemical bond will brake down. I think your apples are fine but the recommendations to use a thick cloth napkin or towel are good ones.

ceramic bowl food put apples

You are correct in regard to chemical reaction. However, It is safe to put un-cut apples etc in the bowl. Not okay to put hot or wet foods.

I just purchased a toothbrush holder & drinking glass for my bathroom. The not for food label was on the glass. Is it safe to use just with water? By the way, it does have an odd smell even after I washed it in hot soapy water.

It may have lead or toxic minerals in the paints used to create some of the really nice colors. It probably doesn't burt to put apples in it, but you don't want to put anything in it that could pick up the lead or other metals from the paints.

The paint or glaze is not good for food - if you thoroughly wash the apples, it might be ok, but I would put something else in it. Or at least line it with paper towel and then peel your apples.

Not For Food Use Warning

I'm sure they're only refering to hot and wet food. Should be fine to put apples in it!