Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) has urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the sourcing of cinnamon used in recalled products after reports of high levels of lead found in cinnamon applesauce pouches.
As of Dec. 5, a total of 64 children under the age of 6 in the United States tested positive for lead poisoning after consuming apple puree pouches that were recently recalled due to lead contamination, the FDA stated.
The recalled food products were marketed to parents and children under the brands WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree and Schnucks- and Weis-branded cinnamon applesauce pouches.
“It appears that the high lead levels were associated with the cinnamon in this product, and not the applesauce,” Mr. Scott said in a letter addressed to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf on Dec. 15….
Lead Contamination in Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches Prompts Senatorial Scrutiny
The recent discovery of high lead levels in cinnamon applesauce pouches has sparked concern and prompted Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) to urge the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the source of the contamination. As of December 5, 2023, 64 children under the age of 6 in the United States have tested positive for lead poisoning after consuming the recalled products.
Recalled Products and Lead Levels
The recalled food products include:
- WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches
- Schnucks-branded cinnamon applesauce pouches
- Weis-branded cinnamon applesauce pouches
The FDA identified the cinnamon used in these products as the likely source of the lead contamination. The agency is currently investigating the specific source of the lead and how it entered the cinnamon supply chain.
Senator Scott’s Request
In his letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, Senator Scott called for a “thorough and swift investigation” into the lead contamination. He specifically requested that the FDA:
- Identify the specific source of the lead contamination.
- Determine how the lead entered the cinnamon supply chain.
- Implement measures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Health Risks of Lead Poisoning in Children
Lead poisoning is a serious health risk, especially for children. Even low levels of lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, learning problems, and behavioral issues. In severe cases, lead poisoning can damage the brain and kidneys and even lead to death.
What Parents Can Do
If you are concerned that your child may have been exposed to lead from the recalled applesauce pouches, the FDA recommends that you:
- Contact your child’s doctor to have their lead levels tested.
- Throw away any recalled applesauce pouches that you may have in your home.
- Visit the FDA website for more information about the recall and lead poisoning.
The FDA is taking the lead contamination issue seriously and is working to ensure the safety of the food supply. Senator Scott’s call for a thorough investigation is an important step in protecting children from the dangers of lead poisoning.
Additional Resources:
- FDA Recall Information: https://cen.acs.org/food/food-ingredients/FDA-zeros-lead-apple-cinnamon/101/web/2023/11
- CDC Lead Poisoning Information: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/default.htm
- National Lead Poisoning Prevention Hotline: 1-800-LEAD-INFO (1-800-532-3466)
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
