I received this item with red paint on the packaging materials that were in contact with the tetsubi. I then noticed that the coloring wiped off very easily and when wiped with a wet sponge it would wring out red water! I tried to contact Joyce Chen numerous times regarding this issue, but they did not reply. I don't know what the red paint/stain is composed of, but I'm concerned about lead or other toxic materials since it's hard to keep some water from not touching the exterior when using the tetsubi. I would not recommend this item until that issue has been resolved. I feel strongly enough about this that is caused me to write my first Amazon review after hundreds of purchases.