UPDATE: Lead Contamination in Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches Under Investigation
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently conducting an on-site inspection of a cinnamon supplier in Ecuador, after receiving reports of potentially elevated lead levels in the applesauce pouches distributed in the United States.
The FDA has been cooperating with Ecuadorian authorities to gather information about Negasmart, a cinnamon supplier used by Austrofoods, including whether the tainted cinnamon was used in other apple sauce pouches exported to the U.S. [Enrichment Data 1]
FDA advises consumers who have consumed any affected apple sauce pouches to get their blood tested for lead exposure.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Lead is toxic to humans and has no safe threshold. Despite the delayed symptoms, high levels of lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems in children under six years old. Some of the early symptoms of lead poisoning include headaches, stomachaches, vomiting, anemia, irritability, fatigue, and weight loss. [Enrichment Data 2]
Recalls and Contamination Levels
At least 69 complaints regarding adverse events associated with the recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches, mostly involving children under six years old, have been reported. The recalled cinnamon applesauce fruit pouches were sold under the WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks brands.
An on-site inspection of the Austrofoods facility in Ecuador revealed extremely high levels of lead contamination in cinnamon samples, with levels of up to 5110 parts per million (ppm) and 2270 ppm. [Enrichment Data 1]
Regulatory Actions and Brand Implications
Consumer Reports analyzed 36 cinnamon products, finding that one-third contained dangerously high levels of lead, with specific brands like Paras, EGN, Mimi’s Products, Bowl & Basket, and Spicy King flagged for high lead levels. [Enrichment Data 3]
Two brands with high lead levels, Paras and EGN, have announced that they will withdraw their products from the market.
The investigation into the contamination is ongoing, with some officials suggesting the lead contamination may have been deliberate. [Enrichment Data 4]
The CDC advises clinicians to counsel patients and families not to consume the recalled cinnamon-contain applesauce products and to test children who have consumed the contaminated products for lead exposure.
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