Ceramic cookware have a glazed finish to give it a shiny, smooth and strong finish. This glaze prevents moisture from entering into the porous cookware. Some cookware glazes, not the ones mentioned previously, may include lead and cadmium poisoning which are extremely toxic when entered into the body through cooking of food. Over time, lead deposits built up can lead to lead poisoning and serious health issues in children. Beware of toxic pots and pans and really know what's in the nonstick ceramic coating.