FDA Investigates Lead Poisoning in Applesauce Pouches and Other Food Items

The number of children with lead poisoning potentially linked to tainted pouches of cinnamon apple puree and applesauce has risen to 64, according to the FDA. The recalled products include WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree, Schnucks apple sauce pouches with cinnamon, and Weis cinnamon apple sauce. The FDA has identified cinnamon as the likely source of the lead and is currently investigating. An inspection of the facility in Ecuador that produced the pouches revealed that the cinnamon supplier had levels of lead exceeding the country's limits. Lead exposure can cause serious health problems in children, including damage to the brain and nervous system. Cases have been reported in 27 states.