Lead Alert: FDA Targets Cinnamon Imports Following Contaminated Applesauce Outbreak

FDA alert lead contamination cinnamon fruit puree applesauce

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Nov 18, 02:40 am

Photo: (Photo : CHRISTOPHE SIMON /Getty Images)

In a significant health development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent alert, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local partners, regarding a potential lead contamination crisis in cinnamon imports.

This heightened scrutiny comes in response to a growing number of reported cases involving children falling ill after consuming pouches of applesauce and apple puree. Cinnamon, a popular spice commonly used in these products, is now under intense investigation.

FDA Investigation Reveals Likely Culprit in Ecuadorian Cinnamon Imports

The FDA's alert pinpoints cinnamon from a manufacturer in Ecuador as the likely source of elevated lead levels found in recalled pouches of applesauce puree.

These contaminated products, including WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree and Schnucks and Weis brand cinnamon applesauce, have been linked to illnesses in at least 34 children across 22 states.

The agency, alongside its partners, is actively investigating reports of elevated blood lead levels associated with these specific products.

As of November 16, 2023, the FDA has received a total of 34 reports of illness potentially linked to the recalled products.

This data is instrumental in the ongoing evaluation of the situation. The FDA is diligently analyzing incoming adverse reports of illnesses, working collaboratively with state and local partners to gain a comprehensive understanding of the scale of the issue.

The gravity of the situation necessitates a thorough and expedited response to protect public health.

Advanced Sampling and Shocking Lead Levels Detected

In a proactive move, the FDA, in collaboration with state partners, collected and analyzed additional product samples of fruit puree and applesauce pouches.

The results are alarming, revealing elevated levels of lead, particularly in one finished product sample of WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree collected from a Dollar Tree store.

The detected level in the FDA sample of WanaBana apple cinnamon puree is measured at 2.18 parts per million (ppm).

This concentration is more than 200 times greater than the action level proposed by the FDA in draft guidance for fruit purees and similar products intended for babies and young children.

The shockingly high lead levels underscore the urgency of the situation and the potential risks associated with the consumption of the affected products.

Discerning Recalled and Non-Recalled Products

Consumers are urged to differentiate between the recalled and non-recalled products. To date, sample analysis of WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks fruit puree pouches that do not contain cinnamon and are not part of the recall has not shown elevated levels of lead.

This distinction emphasizes the importance of checking lot codes and UPCs to accurately identify and avoid consuming the affected products.

As the FDA intensifies its scrutiny on cinnamon imports, consumers are advised to stay informed about the latest developments in this lead contamination issue.

Vigilance is crucial, particularly for parents with young children who may have consumed the affected products.

The FDA remains committed to working closely with manufacturers and retailers to address the situation promptly, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers nationwide.