Lead Poisoning Reported in Tennessee Linked to Recalled Applesauce Pouches
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have received reports of more than 280 cases of lead poisoning across 37 states, including Tennessee, that have been linked back to applesauce pouches.
CDC & FDA Report More Than 280 Cases of Lead Poisoning
The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are reporting dozens of cases of lead poisoning across the country as they urge consumers to "not eat, sell, or serve" recalled applesauce pouches.
Do not eat, sell, or serve multiple brands of recalled apple cinnamon fruit pouches. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.
Applesauce Products Sold Nationwide Recalled
In late October, WanaBana issued a recall for the company's WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouchs after it was found that the product may have been contaminated with lead. The recall included all products manufactured from the company regardless of expiration date or lot code. The Wanabana products were sold nationwide from major retailers like Amazon, Dollar Tree, and Family Dollar/Dollar Tree combination stores, as well various other online outlets.
Products Found on Store Shelves More Than Month After Recall Issued
In mid-December, it was discovered by the FDA that the recalled WanaBana products were still on store shelves and being sold to consumers in multiple states.
FDA is aware that, as of December 13, recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree product (including recalled three packs) was still on the shelves at several Dollar Tree stores in multiple states. As of December 19, FDA also received a report that recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree product (including recalled three packs) may still be on shelves at Family Dollar/Dollar Tree combination stores. This product should not be available for sale and consumers should not purchase this product. - FDA
Additional Brands Included in the Recall
In addition to the WanaBana brand products, the recall was also extended to include Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavord applesauce pouches and variety packs sold at both Schnucks and Eatweel Markets grocery store chains, as well as Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches sold at Weis grocery stores. The recalled products have been linked to over 280 reports of lead exosure in 37 states, including Tennessee, as confirmed by the Tennessee Department of Health.
The Tennessee Department of Health is reminding consumers not to eat any of the recently recalled apple cinnamon fruit puree or cinnamon applesauce pouches manufactured by WanaBana USA, under three brand names. The pouches should be thrown away immediately. -TDH
Dangers of Lead Exposure
The CDC warns of the dangers of lead poisoning, particularly for children under six years of age.
The health effects of exposure are more harmful to children less than six years of age because their bodies are still developing and growing rapidly. Young children also tend to put their hands or other objects, which may be contaminated with lead dust, into their mouths, so they are more likely to be exposed to lead than older children. -<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/news/lead-poisoning-outbreak-linked-to-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches.html" target="_blank">CDC</a>
Symptoms of Lead Exposure
The CDC says that children exposed to lead may not present with any "apparent acute symptons," but the impact of lead exposure, even in low levels, can result in a long list of developmental issues including behavioral and learning problems, hearing and speach impairments, lower IQ, and delayed growth and development.
In larger amounts, exposure to lead may lead to lead poisoning which can result in physical symptoms like abdominal pain, comstipation, anemia, and fatigue, as well as neurological symptoms like seizures, encepphalopathy, and even coma.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Has Been Exposed to Lead
If you suspect that your child has been exposed to lead, the CDC advises that you speak with your child's healthcare provider about getting tested for lead. The lead test typically involves a finger or heel stick, or a blood draw.
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