The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is intensifying its probe into potentially lead-contaminated pouches of apple cinnamon fruit puree designed for children, following reports of more illnesses and additional product recalls.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration disclosed that it had received reports of seven cases of illness in at least five states that could potentially be linked to tainted puree
Schnucks Markets of St. Louis and Weis Markets of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, two new companies, have issued recalls for specific cinnamon applesauce products due to possible elevated lead levels. WanaBana of Coral Gables, Florida, had previously recalled all batches and expiration dates of its apple cinnamon fruit puree. Consumption of the contaminated products may lead to “acute toxicity,” as stated by U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials. Parents and caregivers are advised against purchasing or serving these cinnamon applesauce products, which are available through various retailers, including Amazon, Dollar Tree, Schnucks, and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that children and individuals who have consumed these products undergo testing for potential lead poisoning. The inquiry originated in North Carolina, where health authorities are investigating reports of four children with elevated blood lead levels associated with the WanaBana product.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has verified these findings
The FDA, in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as state and local health authorities, is spearheading the investigation through its Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network.
While lead is toxic to individuals of all age groups, it poses a greater risk to children. Most children display no obvious symptoms, underscoring the importance of testing for lead levels in those who may have been exposed. Short-term exposure to lead can lead to symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, and anemia, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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