By Blake Jackson
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and State Health Department are urging consumers to discard apple sauce pouches that may contain high levels of lead. The FDA is investigating the products after four children were found to have elevated blood lead levels.
The recalled products include WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée Pouches, Schnucks Applesauce Pouches (cinnamon flavor and variety pack), and Weis Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches (i.e., specific lots of UPC 041497216123). For more information regarding the ongoing FDA investigation, visit: https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-applesauce-pouches-november-2023
Consumers should discard the products immediately and contact their health care provider if their children have eaten them.
Lead is toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status. Children are more susceptible to lead toxicity, and most children have no obvious immediate symptoms.
Parents and caretakers should consult a healthcare provider if they suspect a child may have been exposed to lead. Symptoms of lead toxicity include headache, abdominal pain/colic, vomiting, anemia, irritability, lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches or muscle prickling/burning, constipation, difficulty concentrating/muscular weakness, tremors, and weight loss.
Photo Credit: istock-rixipix
Categories: New York, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables